Clayton Kershaw Retiring After 18 Seasons: Dodgers Fans Call for Statue Tribute

Clayton Kershaw is retiring after his 18th season in Major League Baseball. The Los Angeles Dodgers confirmed that the 37-year-old pitcher will play his final regular-season game at Dodger Stadium on Friday. The matchup against the San Francisco Giants will mark the end of an era for the team. Fans have already begun demanding a unique tribute, with many asking for a statue of the legendary left-hander.

The Dodgers have not yet announced formal tribute plans. However, the team’s owner Mark Walter released a statement praising Kershaw’s career. He called the pitcher a “living legend” and a future Hall of Famer. Fans across social media echoed that sentiment and urged the club to honor him in a permanent way.

Clayton Kershaw Retiring: Career Highlights and Achievements

Kershaw’s career is one of the most celebrated in modern baseball. He was selected to 11 All-Star Games and won three National League Cy Young Awards. In 2014, he was named the league’s Most Valuable Player. According to reports from Reuters, he is considered one of the most dominant pitchers of his generation.

Over 18 years, Kershaw posted a career record of 222 wins and 96 losses. He collected more than 3,000 strikeouts and led the Dodgers to multiple postseason appearances. He helped secure the 2020 World Series title, ending the team’s 32-year championship drought. For more than a decade, Kershaw stood as the ace of the Dodgers’ rotation, often referred to as the best pitcher in baseball.

This season, Kershaw fought back from injuries to remain competitive. He carried a 10–2 record with a 3.53 ERA late into the year. His consistency and determination kept him at the top of the game for nearly two decades. Few pitchers in history have combined skill, longevity, and leadership the way he has.

Fans Demand Statue at Dodger Stadium

The news of Clayton Kershaw retiring has sparked a wave of fan reaction. Many supporters believe the pitcher deserves a statue outside Dodger Stadium. “Unveil a Clayton Kershaw statue next season,” one fan posted. Another wrote, “It may be rare to honor a player so soon, but Kershaw deserves it.”

The Dodgers currently have statues of Jackie Robinson and Sandy Koufax at their ballpark. Fans now want Kershaw to join that company. While the team has not confirmed any plans, the demand shows how deeply he is loved. His impact stretches beyond the field, as he has also been active in charity work and youth programs.

Legacy Beyond Baseball

Kershaw’s influence will not end with his final pitch. He has been a mentor to younger players and a role model for the community. His charity, Kershaw’s Challenge, has raised millions for children and families in need. Fellow players have also spoken highly of him, with Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff calling his consistency “super tough” and “crazy impressive.”

The pitcher’s career will be remembered as one of greatness and grace. His retirement leaves a gap for the Dodgers, but also cements his place in baseball history. Fans now wait to see how the team will honor his legacy in the years ahead.

Clayton Kershaw retiring is the end of an era. His name will be written in baseball history. The Dodgers must now decide how best to honor their greatest pitcher.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When is Clayton Kershaw retiring?

Kershaw is retiring at the end of the 2025 season. His last regular-season game will be on Friday at Dodger Stadium.

Q2: How many years did Kershaw play with the Dodgers?

He played 18 seasons, all with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He never left the team during his career.

Q3: What are Clayton Kershaw’s career stats?

He has 222 wins, 96 losses, and more than 3,000 strikeouts. He also holds a career ERA among the best of his era.

Q4: Will the Dodgers build a statue for him?

Fans are calling for a statue at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers have not yet announced plans for one.

Q5: What is Kershaw known for off the field?

He is known for his charity, Kershaw’s Challenge. It supports children and families around the world.