Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw will leave Team USA after the quarterfinals, with Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan joining the team.
Kershaw, fresh off his Hall of Fame career, received an invitation from head coach Mark DeRosa to join Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, and the American left-hander agreed.
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It will be his last appearance on a baseball roster and, having yet to pitch heading into Friday’s quarterfinals, the veteran seemed happy to be with a team one last time.
March 3, 2026; Scottsdale, Arizona, USA; Team USA pitcher Clayton Kershaw during a spring training game against the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory photo credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Kershaw was interviewed on Fox at the start of Team USA’s game against Canada, in which he talked about his time with the Stars and Stripes.
“Well, for me, having Team USA close to my chest and being able to represent the national team has always been something on my bucket list,” the legendary southpaw said.
“You see a bunch of guys that signed up, so I think it’s the same for everyone, just being able to be in the clubhouse, being able to hang out. Obviously winning is huge for everyone, the intensity and all that stuff, but for me, just being a fly on the wall and hanging out, it’s been awesome.”
Even in his final moments on the field, Kershaw was an all-around team player and awaited his chance to play in Canada, but even if he didn’t, he seemed happy to be one.
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“We have some good weapons in the stable, but I’m going to be ready,” Kershaw added.
“I know this is the last game I’m going to be active in, so I’m always going to be ready, but I might be a little lower on the depth chart than I expected, but that’s probably part of it and that’s okay with me.”
Kershaw’s last ride
Although Friday was his last time wearing a uniform, he won’t be away from the sport for long – Kershaw already works as an analyst on NBC.
He will cover primetime games around the league and make appearances at Dodgers games.
