URGENT UPDATE: As speculation mounts about his retirement, Clayton Kershaw is receiving an unprecedented number of jersey requests from both teammates and opponents. This surge comes as the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for his final regular-season start at Dodger Stadium on Friday, a game that carries significant emotional weight for fans and players alike.
Earlier this month, Joe Musgrove, pitcher for the San Diego Padres, made headlines by requesting a signed Kershaw jersey, marking a rare gesture of admiration between rivals. Musgrove expressed, “This is the first that I’ve sent over in admiration for what someone has done for the game,” highlighting Kershaw’s profound impact on baseball.
Kershaw, 37, is set to make his last appearance on home turf amid growing sentiment from fellow players. He has noticed a notable increase in jersey requests this season, stating, “It’s like they all talk.” He recalls both the joy and pressure of signing jerseys, often personalizing them with details like his career achievements, including reaching 3,000 strikeouts earlier this year.
Kershaw’s performance this season has been impressive, boasting a 10-2 record with a 3.53 ERA. Despite battling injuries, he has helped stabilize the Dodgers’ pitching staff significantly. Manager Dave Roberts stated, “There’s a place for him” on the postseason roster, reinforcing Kershaw’s value as they head into October.
In a season marked by nostalgia, Kershaw’s reflections reveal a deeper connection to the game. He remarked, “The edges…aren’t as hard anymore,” suggesting a newfound appreciation for his career’s final chapter. As he prepares for what could be his last game at Dodger Stadium, Kershaw’s legacy is celebrated not just by fans, but by those who have competed against him.
WHAT’S NEXT: All eyes will be on Kershaw this Friday as he takes the mound, potentially for the last time at Dodger Stadium. As the Dodgers gear up for the playoffs, Kershaw remains focused on contributing to the team’s success. Fans and players alike are expected to show their support, making this a pivotal moment in his storied career.
As the baseball world anticipates Kershaw’s future, the emotional significance of this final season is palpable. The requests for jerseys are more than just memorabilia; they symbolize the respect and admiration earned by one of the game’s greats.
