Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Dodgers Legend Clayton Kershaw Makes Career Decision After MLB Retirement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Hugh Green | Last updated Jan 15, 2026 11:53 AM ET

Legendary Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw had an incredible career in Major League Baseball. He spent 18 years in the majors, all of which came with the Dodgers. In 455 appearances, he had a 223-96 record with a 2.53 ERA. Kershaw tossed 2,855 1/3 innings with a 4.28 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

The Dallas, Texas, native played in 11 All-Star Games and won five ERA titles, one Gold Glove, one pitching triple crown, one National League MVP and three World Series titles in his illustrious career.

Kershaw announced 2025 would be his final year in the majors, as he was set to retire after the season.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22).Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The future Hall of Fame left-hander had a fantastic goodbye with his only franchise. In the 2025 season, Kershaw went 11-2 in 23 regular-season appearances, totaling 84 strikeouts and 35 walks in 112 2/3 innings pitched.

On Thursday, Kershaw made a decision to give his arm one more go in the 2026 World Baseball Classic for Team USA, according to USA Baseball on X.

"CLAYTON KERSHAW! The three-time World Series champ, 11-time All-Star, three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, and 2014 NL MVP will suit up one last time for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic! ," the caption read.

CLAYTON KERSHAW!

The three-time World Series champ, 11-time All-Star, three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, and 2014 NL MVP will suit up one last time for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic! pic.twitter.com/CnUnpa1oeH
— USA Baseball (@USABaseball) January 15, 2026

This will be the first time the 37-year-old has suited up in a WBC for his home country, as he had to withdraw from the tournament in 2023.

Kershaw will join the likes of Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Logan Webb and Clay Holmes on Team USA's pitching staff. The Americans will begin their tournament on March 6 against Brazil at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: