Kershaw’s Last Game at Dodger Stadium: A Bittersweet Farewell

Clayton Kershaw’s farewell at Dodger Stadium didn’t quite go as he imagined, but there were still some memorable moments as he bid adieu to Southern California.

The Los Angeles Dodgers faced a tough loss, falling 6-1 to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 5 of the World Series, putting the Blue Jays just a win away from their first championship since 1993.

Though Kershaw didn’t play in this game, his last pitch at Chavez Ravine contributed to an intense 18-inning Game 3.

Feeling a mix of anxiety and nostalgia in Los Angeles, Kershaw tried to savor the experience before heading to Toronto for the season’s final contest. He took pictures with the field staff on the mound, and his four children happily chased after the balls he tossed. His wife Ellen, pregnant with their fifth child and sporting a number 22 jersey, shared an emotional embrace with him.

In October, Kershaw pitched only 2.1 innings, appearing in one game during the National League Division Series, where he allowed five runs (four earned) in just two innings.

Highlights and Heartfelt Goodbyes

Before Game 5, the Dodgers honored Kershaw by showcasing a video of his career milestones, which included his notable 3,000th strikeout from July. A touching tribute during Tuesday’s Game 4, narrated by rapper Ice Cube, was also aired.

After the game, many Dodgers fans, despite feeling the sting of the loss, managed to acknowledge Kershaw’s contributions and celebrated his legacy.

Although the Dodgers fell short and Kershaw’s career didn’t end on the highest of notes, there remains hope. If the Dodgers can clinch victories in both Games 6 and 7 in Toronto, Kershaw’s Hall of Fame spot might reflect that he’s a three-time World Series Champion.