The Los Angeles Dodgers' 2025 season was a near-perfect one for Clayton Kershaw. He got to go on a farewell tour around Major League Baseball, reaching milestones and helping the Dodgers win the World Series.
It was a great way to close his Hall of Fame MLB career. The beloved Dodgers lefty, at 37 years old, retired after the season came to a close.
But in an unexpected twist, he's not done pitching.
As Major League Baseball's X account announced, Kershaw's playing days aren't over just yet, though he's not pitching with the Dodgers. Instead, he's suiting up for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
MORE: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades for 2025 free agency
Clayton Kershaw returns to pitching, joins Team USA for WBC
Kershaw's return to the mound for Team USA comes as a surprise, as he seemingly was ready to retire. Now, he's coming out of retirement for one last ride.
But his final pitching appearance, as long as he does get on the mound for a game for Team USA, will not come in the Major Leagues, but in the World Baseball Classic.
He's an MVP, three-time Cy Young and 11-time All-Star in his illustrious MLB career. While he's a big name joining the competition, due to the rest of the rotation being so strong, Kershaw might not be in a big role.
Instead, with Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Joe Ryan and Logan Webb making up the starting rotation, plus a few other great options behind them, the Dodgers legend is more likely to pitch out of the bullpen for Team USA.
More MLB news:
- Mets know what contract they need to give to sign Cody Bellinger
- Phillies get bad news on Bo Bichette amid unexpected challenge from Alex Bregman Cubs deal
- Red Sox linked to frustrating Alex Bregman replacements after Cubs deal
- Yankees get $160 million contract update on Cody Bellinger amid stare-down
- Dodgers predicted to poach $189M Silver Slugger, All-Star from Phillies to solve aging dilemma
- Bryce Harper, Tarik Skubal among stars on team for 2026 tournament
- Mets get Kyle Tucker news in free agency