Former MLB starter Clayton Kershaw talks about the moment WBC center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong threw a beer at him.
In the video, Kershaw stands up from the bench and opens the outfield door, where Crowe-Armstrong throws what is apparently a beer can. Kershaw claimed the jar was empty and he didn’t understand the video’s popularity.
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“That was literally just garbage,” Kershaw told Doug McCain of Dodger Country. “It’s empty. I don’t understand why it’s so hot.”
Kershaw shocked the baseball world when he announced he would join Team USA for the 2026 WBC a few months after retiring, but he has never played an official game for Team USA.
He last played in an exhibition game against the Rockies and did not play in the WBC pool tournament or the quarterfinals against Canada – his final game on the roster.
The Americans replaced Kershaw with reliever Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins. Despite the lack of involvement, Kershaw was grateful for his brief stay with the team.
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“Well, for me, having Team USA close to my chest and being able to represent this country has always been something on my bucket list,” Kershaw 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.”
March 4, 2026; Scottsdale, Arizona, USA; American pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) pitches during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Salt River Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
When is Team USA’s next game?
Even without Kershaw, Team USA managed to claw its way through a tough matchup and will play in Tuesday’s final against Venezuela.
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Kershaw certainly won’t pitch for Team USA on Tuesday, but current Dodgers catcher Will Smith will start and look to continue to play a role in Team USA’s bid for a second WBC title.
Smith has made strides in his game, replacing American League MVP runner-up Cal Raleigh as the everyday catcher.
The WBC finals begin at 5:00 PM PT.
What are your thoughts on Clayton Kershaw’s viral video?
