Clayton Kershaw’s Team USA Run to End After World Baseball Classic Quarterfinal
Clayton Kershaw’s brief return to the mound with Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic will conclude after Friday’s quarterfinal game against Canada, manager Mark DeRosa announced Thursday. The Los Angeles Dodgers legend, who announced his retirement from Major League Baseball in September, surprised many when he committed to playing for Team USA in the tournament.
Limited Action for the Veteran
Through four games of the tournament, Kershaw has not yet appeared in a game for Team USA. He was added to the roster as a “break glass in case of emergency” player, meaning he would be utilized in low-pressure situations or if the team faced a significant deficit. As reported by ESPN, Wednesday’s exhibition game against the Colorado Rockies may have been his only opportunity to pitch in a Team USA jersey.
Joe Ryan to Replace Kershaw
Following the quarterfinal matchup against Canada, Kershaw will be replaced on the roster by Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan. Ryan could potentially start in the championship game should Team USA advance. USA Baseball’s official website confirms Kershaw’s participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic and his previous experience with the 18U National Team in 2025.
Kershaw’s Sentimentality
Despite limited playing time, Kershaw expressed his joy at being part of Team USA. “Just being on this team was a bucket list thing for me from the beginning,” Kershaw stated to ESPN. “Obviously, I thought I was never going to throw a baseball again. So to gain to do it with Team USA across your chest and come back to that dugout, that team is really special.”
The post Clayton Kershaw WBC: Team USA to Replace Dodgers Pitcher After Quarterfinal appeared first on Archynewsy.