Kershaw Receives Emotional Farewell at Dodger Stadium
Clayton Kershaw concluded his home career at Dodger Stadium on Saturday, pitching in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 6-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants. The 37-year-old pitcher, who has announced his retirement at the end of the season, was honored with a sustained standing ovation from the crowd.
Kershaw navigated a challenging start, issuing four walks and conceding some runs against the Giants. Despite the arduous innings, the dodgers (87-67) secured the win, extending their playoff streak to 13 consecutive appearances.
The game took on a particularly emotional tone when manager Dave Roberts removed Kershaw after 4 1/3 innings.Following a final strikeout, Kershaw embraced his teammates and acknowledged the cheering fans with a tip of his cap, prompting a minutes-long ovation.
“I am infinitely grateful for every single Dodgers fan who came to the stadium here, and for all the people I got to know this way,” kershaw shared after the game. “It was something very special to have this fan base over the years. There is nothing better than stepping onto the mound in front of a fully occupied Dodger Stadium.”
teammates were mindful of Kershaw’s preference for a low-key farewell. Max Muncy revealed a day prior that Kershaw would be uncomfortable with excessive fanfare, stating, “When it comes to Clayton, nothing more would annoy him than if you staged something like this. So we will just go out as normal, play as hard as possible – and get a victory.”
Throughout his Major League Baseball career, beginning in Los Angeles, Kershaw has earned three Cy Young awards and an MVP award. He recently reached a milestone this July, recording his 3000th strikeout, and finished his final home appearance with his 3045th career strikeout.
The stands at Dodger Stadium were filled with supporters, including childhood friend and Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, as well as several former teammates, all there to honor the veteran pitcher.
