Clayton Kershaw made his debut as a Los Angeles Dodger 15 years ago and hasn't let up since. The 35-year-old is one of the best pitchers to don a Dodgers uniform and will always be a fan favorite for the commitment he has shown throughout his career to the Dodgers.
But his most recent start could have been the last time he pitched in front of a Los Angeles crowd — or in the MLB in general.
Given his recent bout with a shoulder injury that kept him on the injured list for over six weeks this season, Kershaw's time in Major League Baseball could be coming to an end. Kershaw has yet to confirm or deny whether he will return to the Dodgers or MLB as a whole after this season.
After a disastrous Game 1 start in which Kershaw allowed six hits and six earned runs, it would be unfortunate if the Dodgers legend hung it up after such a performance.
According to manager Dave Roberts, Kershaw continues to have high expectations ahead of each outing.
“I understand that it could be his last start here," Roberts said, "So I don’t take it for granted... I think that it’s a real struggle for him to decide if he feels physically (well) enough to perform the way of his own expectations."
Roberts also made it clear he has no idea what Kershaw will do next season.
“I think that family, certainly where he’s at, matters more than anything. So it’s a real struggle for him every December when he signs that contract. So, I think him and (wife) Ellen are going to hunker down and try to figure it out again."
Kershaw will take as much time as he needs to decide if he wants to come back next season, and Dodger fans will have to patiently await his decision.
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