Why Clayton Kershaw won't pitch for the Dodgers in the World Series

The Dodgers and Yankees face off in the battle for the big-market World Series, but one of the biggest names (Clayton Kershaw) isn't available to pitch.

Kershaw has played for the Dodgers since 2008, won the Cy Young Award three times and was even named the National League's Most Valuable Player in 2014.

One of the most recognizable names in baseball, he has turned Los Angeles into one of the most dominant powerhouses over the past decade. He won the World Series with the organization in the shortened 2020 season, but unfortunately he won't have a chance to help his team this time around.

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Even though things didn't always go well for Kershaw in the playoffs, his veteran presence will be missed in Los Angeles.

Kershaw, an All-Star in each of the previous two seasons before this one, pitched in just seven games in 2024. After a shockingly poor playoff appearance last year, he underwent shoulder surgery in the offseason.

He hasn't thrown since August, when he was placed on the injured list with a bone spur in his left big toe. Kershaw has officially been ruled out for the entire postseason.

The 36-year-old said he plans to return next season to take advantage of his surgery. However, he could become a free agent and may not return to the Dodgers because they have such a crowded starting rotation.

A long-time star, he posted a record-breaking 2,968 strikeouts during his MLB career. He could become one of just 20 pitchers in league history to reach the 3,000 strikeout milestone next season.

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