Clayton Kershaw Delays Retirement for World Baseball Classic

One of baseball's greatest pitchers just proved retirement can wait when there's unfinished business on your heart.

Clayton Kershaw announced last September he was hanging up his cleats after 18 stellar seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The left-hander finished with three World Series titles, three Cy Young Awards, and over 3,000 strikeouts. Most athletes would call that a perfect ending.

But Kershaw had one regret nagging at him. He wanted to pitch for Team USA in the 2023 World Baseball Classic but couldn't participate due to insurance complications tied to his $20 million contract with the Dodgers. The dream of representing his country on baseball's international stage remained unfulfilled.

This week, Kershaw made his decision official. He's joining the U.S. roster for the 2026 tournament, which kicks off March 6 when America faces Brazil in Houston. He'll turn 38 just two days after the championship game on March 17.

The timing couldn't be better for both Kershaw and Team USA. The Americans lost the 2023 championship game to Japan and are hungry for redemption. Now they'll have one of the sport's most decorated pitchers leading a talented staff that includes rising star Paul Skenes and ace Tarik Skubal.

Kershaw joins an impressive American roster featuring MVP candidate Aaron Judge, slugger Kyle Schwarber, and defensive wizard Gunnar Henderson. The team will compete in a group with Brazil, Britain, Italy, and Mexico.

Why This Inspires

Sometimes the best stories aren't about perfect endings but second chances. Kershaw walked away from baseball with nothing left to prove, yet he's returning for something money can't buy: the honor of wearing his country's uniform. His choice reminds us that our most meaningful achievements often come when we chase purpose over perfection.

For younger players on Team USA, sharing a dugout with a legend who chose to come back speaks volumes about what the tournament represents. Kershaw is showing an entire generation that some dreams are worth postponing retirement.

One last ride for a champion who refused to leave his final dream unfinished.