Key Takeaways
- Clayton Kershaw will participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic as a member of the United States team
- This will be Kershaw’s first time participating in the Classic, after having to withdraw from the 2023 edition
- Kershaw recently completed his 18th major league season, all with the Los Angeles Dodgers, tying him with Zack Wheat and Bill Russell for the most years in franchise history
- The 2026 World Baseball Classic will take place from March 6 to March 16, with Team USA opening against Brazil on March 6
- The current Team USA roster includes notable players such as Bryce Harper, Aaron Judge, and Clayton Kershaw
Introduction to Clayton Kershaw’s Career
The sand has not, in fact, run out on the baseball hour glass that is Clayton Kershaw’s career. The Highland Park product, who recently concluded his MLB retirement tour, was announced as a roster member for the United States team participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. This will mark the Dodgers legend’s first time participating in the Classic, as he had to withdraw from the 2023 edition. Kershaw’s career has been nothing short of impressive, with numerous accolades and achievements that have cemented his place as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history.
Kershaw’s Achievements and Milestones
The 37-year-old left-hander just completed his 18th major league season, all with the Los Angeles Dodgers, which ties him with Zack Wheat and Bill Russell for the most years in franchise history. Among the major accolades in his career, Kershaw recorded his 3,000th career strikeout in July, and the 11-time All-Star and 2014 NL MVP won World Series championships with Los Angeles in 2020 and 2024. These achievements are a testament to Kershaw’s dedication and perseverance, and demonstrate why he is considered one of the greatest pitchers of his generation.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic
Team USA is scheduled to open the WBC on March 6 at Daikin Park in Houston against Brazil. The tournament runs through March 16, and will feature some of the best baseball players from around the world. The current Team USA roster includes notable players such as Bryce Harper, Aaron Judge, and Clayton Kershaw, making them a strong contender for the championship. The addition of Kershaw to the roster is a significant boost, as he brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team.
Team USA Roster and Schedule
The current Team USA roster looks like a formidable team, with a mix of veteran players and young talent. The roster includes Cal Raleigh and Will Smith at catcher, Bryce Harper at first base, Brice Turang at second base, and Bobby Witt Jr. and Gunnar Henderson at shortstop. The outfield features a strong lineup, with Byron Buxton, Corbin Carroll, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Aaron Judge. The pitching staff is equally impressive, with David Bednar, Clay Holmes, Griffin Jax, Clayton Kershaw, Nolan McLean, Mason Miller, Joe Ryan, Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Gabe Speier, and Logan Webb. With this talented roster, Team USA is poised to make a deep run in the tournament.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, Clayton Kershaw’s participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic is a significant development, and a testament to his enduring passion for the game. As the tournament approaches, fans will be eagerly watching to see how Team USA performs, and how Kershaw contributes to the team’s success. With his impressive career achievements and milestones, Kershaw is sure to be a key player in the tournament, and his experience will be invaluable to the team. As the baseball world looks to the future, one thing is certain – Clayton Kershaw’s legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.
