In a move that raised a few eyebrows, the iconic Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw found himself added to the All-Star game roster—a nod to his enduring legacy by Commissioner Rob Manfred. This “legends” pick adds another chapter to Kershaw’s decorated career, marking his 11th appearance in the MLB All-Star game. Reflecting on this unexpected honor, the 37-year-old ace expressed a mix of emotions, describing the selection as both “weird” and “cool” in conversation with ESPN.
Kershaw, known for his candor, admitted, “I didn’t really actually know that was a thing. At the end of the day, it’s weird, but it’s cool, so I’m just going to enjoy it.”
This season, Kershaw has been limited to just nine starts, boasting a 3.43 ERA with 32 strikeouts and holding an unbeaten 4-0 record. Ahead of a recent matchup against the Milwaukee Brewers, Kershaw was characteristically humble, suggesting he didn’t “deserve to get to go this season,” but underscored the importance of cherishing such opportunities. “You never take for granted getting to go to an All-Star Game, regardless of the circumstances,” he added. “Obviously, I don’t deserve to get to go this season. I haven’t pitched very much.”
Despite the limited appearances this year, Kershaw achieved a significant career milestone earlier in July, recording his 3,000th strikeout as a Dodger—a feat that places him among the greats of the game. His journey this season has been tempered by ongoing injury challenges since his debut on May 17, echoing a familiar theme in his tenure.
Reflecting on his future, Kershaw remarked, “I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future. I really have no idea when it comes to the years beyond this one, so I’m just trying to enjoy it, trying to be part of a really good team this year. We’ve still got a lot to accomplish, and we still have October.”
The MLB continues to honor its finest with the Legends picks at the All-Star Game, following the precedent set last year with Miguel Cabrera and Albert Pujols. Despite the route he took to get there, Kershaw embraces the acknowledgment with gratitude. “I’ll never pass up that opportunity,” he shared. “It’s a tremendous honor. Super thankful to get to go. Regardless of the situation or how I maybe snuck into the All-Star Game, it’s pretty cool to get to be able to go.”
As Kershaw basks in the All-Star recognition, his Dodgers sit atop the NL West with a 56-36 record, heading into the final games of their series against the Brewers. This All-Star selection not only celebrates Kershaw’s individual achievements but also highlights his role in a team primed for a deep postseason run.
