"Kershaw decided to join Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, fulfilling a goal he had previously been unable to achieve. Kershaw hoped to pitch in the 2023 WBC, but was unable to secure an insurance policy for it. Kershaw pitched in one of the exhibition games for USA, but he was on the roster more as a 'break glass in case of emergency' option."
"Kershaw has been happy to be part of the international tournament that takes place every three years, but he confirmed he has no interest in returning to MLB. The 37-year-old previously said he was accepting of his decision to retire as he wants to spend more time with his family. He and his wife, Ellen, recently welcomed their fifth child together."
Clayton Kershaw, after 18 seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, announced his retirement but decided to join Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic to fulfill a previously unachieved goal. He was unable to participate in the 2023 WBC due to insurance policy issues. Kershaw served primarily as an emergency option on the roster, pitching in exhibition games. However, his time with Team USA is ending after the quarterfinal game against Canada, with Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan replacing him. Kershaw remains at peace with his retirement decision, prioritizing family time with his wife Ellen and their five children together, though he will maintain a baseball presence through NBC Sports.
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