Clayton Kershaw, the iconic left-handed pitcher and a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Dodgers for 18 seasons, has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball at the conclusion of the 2025 season. The news, confirmed by the Dodgers on Thursday, September 18, 2025, marks the end of a Hall of Fame career that has cemented Kershaw’s status as one of the greatest pitchers of his generation.
Kershaw is scheduled to make his final regular-season start at Dodger Stadium on Friday, September 19, 2025, against the rival San Francisco Giants, a fitting opponent for the pitcher who has faced them more than any other team in his illustrious career.
A Career Defined by Excellence and Loyalty
Drafted by the Dodgers as the seventh overall pick in the 2006 MLB Draft, Kershaw made his debut on May 25, 2008, and has spent his entire professional career with the Los Angeles franchise. This unwavering loyalty is a rarity in modern baseball and underscores his deep connection to the city and the team. Over his 18 seasons, Kershaw has amassed an impressive record of 222 wins against just 96 losses, with a career earned run average (ERA) of 2.54. This ERA is the lowest among all pitchers in the live-ball era since 1920 with at least 100 starts, a testament to his consistent dominance.
Kershaw’s trophy case is overflowing with accolades. He is an 11-time All-Star, a three-time National League Cy Young Award winner (2011, 2013, 2014), and the 2014 NL MVP. He also achieved the rare pitching Triple Crown in 2011 and earned a Gold Glove in 2011. A significant milestone this season was reaching the 3,000 strikeout club, placing him among an elite group of pitchers in MLB history.
Championship Moments and Overcoming Adversity
While Kershaw’s regular-season dominance has long been undisputed, his career also includes significant postseason success, notably contributing to the Dodgers’ World Series championship victories in 2020 and 2024. Though he missed the 2024 World Series run due to injury, his presence on the roster was crucial. His 2020 World Series performance, where he went 4-1 with a 2.93 ERA, helped quell criticisms of his postseason record. Manager Dave Roberts has consistently highlighted Kershaw’s importance, calling him the “greatest pitcher of this generation” and emphasizing his consistency, accountability, and leadership in shaping the Dodgers’ culture.
A Legacy Beyond the Mound
Beyond his on-field achievements, Clayton Kershaw is recognized for his profound charitable endeavors and his commitment to giving back, particularly in the Los Angeles community. Dodgers Owner and Chairman Mark Walter lauded Kershaw’s “fabulous career,” thanking him for the memorable moments and his “profound charitable endeavors,” and stating that his “legendary career” will undoubtedly lead to his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Kershaw’s decision to retire was not entirely unexpected, given his history of injuries in recent years, including offseason surgery before the 2025 season. Despite these challenges, he has proven to be a stalwart presence, pitching through discomfort and consistently performing at a high level. Teammates like Freddie Freeman and Max Muncy have expressed their admiration and sadness, acknowledging the significant void his departure will leave.
As Kershaw prepares for his final start, the los angeles baseball community and fans worldwide reflect on a career that has set a benchmark for pitching excellence, integrity, and dedication. His legacy extends far beyond statistics, embodying the spirit of a true Dodger for life.
