Clayton Kershaw Bids Emotional Farewell at Dodger Stadium
UPDATE: In a heartfelt farewell, Clayton Kershaw took his final bow at Dodger Stadium after the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ 6-1 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 5 of the World Series on October 25, 2023. This marks the end of an era for Kershaw, who has spent his entire 18-year career with the Dodgers.
Kershaw, 37, lingered on the field, soaking in the atmosphere one last time while his four children joyfully chased after balls he tossed. His wife, Ellen Kershaw, donned his iconic No. 22 jersey and is currently expecting their fifth child. Their emotional embrace captured the moment’s significance as Kershaw prepared to exit the stage of his illustrious career.
After announcing last month that he would retire post-season, Kershaw did not pitch in Wednesday’s game, as he has been working out of the bullpen in the postseason. The defending champions now face elimination as they head to Toronto for Game 6 on October 27.
Kershaw’s legacy includes three Cy Young Awards and a remarkable run from 2010 to 2015, where he dominated the league, leading in ERA five times and strikeouts three times. His highlight reel includes a stellar 2014 season with a record of 21-3, a 1.77 ERA, and 233 strikeouts, earning him both the Cy Young and MVP honors.
Fans and officials honored Kershaw with a video tribute showcasing his career milestones, including his 3,000th strikeout in July. Before the game, FOX Sports aired a special tribute narrated by rapper-actor Ice Cube, celebrating Kershaw’s impact on baseball.
As Kershaw waved goodbye to the stands, fans captured the poignant moment on their phones, cementing his status as a beloved figure in Dodgers history. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, as Kershaw’s family and fans reflected on the moments shared over nearly two decades.
The Dodgers now shift their focus to the critical Game 6, needing a win to stay alive in the World Series. All eyes will be on Toronto as they aim to keep Kershaw’s legacy alive for one more game.
