As the regular season comes to an end the Dodgers begin to reflect on what has happened so far. One of the biggest announcements of the regular seasons is the retirement of one of their best pitchers.     

The Dodgers first drafted Clayton Kershaw as the seventh overall pick in the 2006 MLB draft. After being drafted, Kershaw worked his way through the Dodger’s minor league system before making his major league debut in May 2008 against the St. Louis Cardinals. 

From the very start, Kershaw seemed to be someone that was going to make MLB history. In high school, Kershaw was a devastating opponent throwing a fastball upwards of 90 miles per hour and hurling a nasty curveball. 

In his first major league game, Kershaw threw out seven batters, even striking out his first batter. Kershaw pitched six innings that game, setting himself up for a professional career in pitching. 

Kershaw continued to shine throughout the 2008 season, throwing six shutout innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks. His strong performance allowed him to continue in the major league and become one of the strongest pitchers of his time. 

Over the course of his career Kershaw would rack up a plentiful amount of achievements. Kershaw won three Cy Young awards as well as earning the MVP title. Kershaw also racked up 11 all star game invites. In 2012 Kershaw was also nominated to win the “Roberto Clemente Award” an award only presented to those who demonstrate the true sport of baseball on and off the field. 

Across his 18 year history, Kershaw has been injured numerous times, even being taken out of the 2024 season due to a toe injury However, nothing stopped Kershaw from making news. In the dugout he would attempt to beat the world record for most baseballs held in one had achieved the record of six. 

Unfortunately, all things must come to an end as on Sept. 18, 2025, Kershaw declared the 2025 season would be the last season of his 18 year legacy.

At MECA, students and staff followed Kershaw’s career closely, watching Kershaw accomplish incredible achievements such as 3000 strikeouts as well as breaking the record for most strikeouts in Dodger history. Many were saddened by the news of his retirement, but some felt like it was time. 

“It’s time to pass on the torch,” said Spanish teacher Johan Cordero.

Kershaw’s legacy as a pitcher and his impact on the Dodgers history will never be forgotten in light of new talent.  “Is there a new Kersh currently on the team? I don’t think so,” said Cordero. Despite the talent shown throughout every game there currently isn’t any Dodger who is going to fill Kershaw’s shoes. 

To some students, Kershaw’s retirement felt long overdue. Isaac Rico-Perez, a sophomore, explains, “I think it was time for him to go a while back.”

As Kershaw grew older he was unable to accomplish what he used to, leading to fewer and fewer in-game appearances.  

The Dodgers have a confirmed spot for the post season. MECA students and staff will be there to cheer them on. Let’s see Kershaw close out strong.