Clayton Kershaw Receives Standing Ovation in Potential Final Dodger Stadium Start as Team Clinches Playoff Berth
LOS ANGELES – In a poignant and celebratory atmosphere, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw received a prolonged standing ovation Friday night at Dodger Stadium, possibly marking his final appearance on the mound in front of the home crowd. The emotional moment coincided with the Dodgers’ 7-2 victory over the San Francisco Giants, officially securing their place in the postseason.
Kershaw,a Dodger as being drafted in 2006,departed the game to thunderous applause after pitching six innings,allowing two runs. The 35-year-old acknowledged the crowd with a hugging gesture and repeated expressions of gratitude, re-emerging from the dugout for a curtain call. The Dodgers’ subsequent offensive surge, fueled by back-to-back home runs from Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts in the fifth inning, sealed both the win and the playoff berth.
This night held importance beyond the playoff implications, representing a possible farewell to a franchise icon. Kershaw’s future role in the postseason remains uncertain, with manager Dave Roberts suggesting a potential bullpen role given the team’s rotation depth and relief corps concerns. However, Roberts affirmed Kershaw will be on the playoff roster, and Kershaw himself stated he is prepared “to do whatever I can to help.”
“It hasn’t always been a smooth ride, but you guys have stuck with me,” Kershaw said during a postgame on-field interview. he later added, “Dodger Stadium is a super special place, and the fans are the main reason why… I’ll never take that for granted.”
The Dodgers (87-67) have now clinched a postseason berth, setting the stage for another October run. Kershaw’s legacy with the team, and the unwavering support of its fanbase, is firmly established.
“I’m kind of mentally exhausted today, honestly, but it’s the best feeling in the world now,” kershaw said. “We got a win, we clinched a playoff berth, and I got to stand on that mound one last time.I just can’t be more grateful.” He concluded, “Perfect night. It really was.”