In March 2008, when Clayton Kershaw, a young 20-year-old phenom, recorded his first milestone of over 3,000 career strikeouts, the legendary broadcaster Vin Scully had already retired. Wearing a number 96 jersey without a name during spring training, Kershaw captivated with a devastating curveball, which Scully dubbed “Public Ainners No. 1.” This pitch, along with a sharp slider and precise fastball, helped define Kershaw as a generational left-handed talent.
Seventeen years later, now a 37-year-old father of four with signs of aging, Kershaw made history once again by achieving his 3,000th strikeout, striking out Vinny Capra on his 100th pitch at Stadium. This feat made Kershaw the 20th player in MLB history to reach this mark, and perhaps the last for the foreseeable future, highlighting his exceptional longevity and consistent excellence.
Kershaw expressed gratitude for joining peers like Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander and admired CC Sabathia’s relentless work ethic. Despite the emergence of bullpen games and shorter starting roles in modern baseball, Kershaw has never missed a full season in his 18-year career, recording seven seasons with over 200 strikeouts. Injuries have softened his once overpowering stuff, with his fastball speed declining from the mid-90s to the 80s, but his pinpoint accuracy and pitching savvy have allowed him to continue dominating.
Catcher Will Smith praised Kershaw’s ability to consistently find outs, while manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the veteran’s resilience and historic significance. Kershaw’s milestone came after a challenging game where he didn’t record his first strikeout until the 51st pitch but eventually secured the record with a slider that struck out Capra. The sold-out crowd at Stadium gave him a standing ovation, underscoring his lasting impact on the franchise and sport.
Since the live ball era began, Kershaw boasts the lowest ERA (2.51) and WHIP (1.01) among pitchers with at least 1,500 innings pitched. Despite numerous injuries over the years, Kershaw has continued to perform at an elite level, making 10 All-Star appearances and consistently leading the in strikeouts and innings pitched. His desire to keep playing hinges on his effectiveness, as the rely on his veteran presence amidst pitching injuries.
Teammate Miguel Rojas shared a personal moment, recalling how he was part of a memorable no-hitter game pitched by Kershaw in 2014. Eleven years later, Rojas still feels the intensity of Kershaw’s pitching every time he steps on the field behind him. Although Kershaw hasn’t thrown another no-hitter since then, his legendary career is filled with many significant achievements, including becoming the ‘ all-time strikeout leader three years ago.
Kershaw’s accomplishment reflects not just personal success but a rarity within baseball history. Few pitchers have reached 3,000 strikeouts with a single team, putting Kershaw alongside legends like Walter Johnson and Bob Gibson. As teams increasingly rely on bullpen games and pitchers face more injuries, reaching such milestones is becoming rarer. Current active players with strikeout potential are either hindered by injuries or too young to predict a similar career longevity.
Kershaw remains a icon, tied to the franchise for more seasons than any other pitcher, and his contributions continue to be vital. His manager and teammates recognize his impact on the team and the sport, with Dave Roberts suggesting Kershaw is destined for a statue in recognition of his extraordinary career. Kershaw’s blend of skill, resilience, and loyalty to the make him one of baseball’s most beloved figures.
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Fan Take: Clayton Kershaw’s 3,000th strikeout is a monumental milestone that underscores not only his extraordinary talent but also the evolving challenges pitchers face in modern baseball. For fans, it’s a reminder of the enduring greatness and dedication required to achieve such feats, making Kershaw’s journey a compelling narrative that enriches the sport’s history.
