Clayton Kershaw—a living icon of the Los Angeles Dodgers and one of the greatest pitchers of his generation officially ended his illustrious playing career at the end of last season. But even after leaving the field, the Dodgers wanted to keep him in the organization by offering Kershaw a role in Baseball Operations.
However, Kershaw’s decision to respond once again proved he is a man who always goes his own way: he turned it down.
In a conversation with The Athletic’s Andy McCullough, Kershaw shared a brief but meaningful statement:
“I don’t see myself taking any full-time jobs in the future. Except being a full-time dad.”
The statement quickly spread throughout the MLB community, leaving many surprised and emotional. For a player who was an MVP, a three-time Cy Young winner, and the heart of the Dodgers for more than a decade, his invitation to join the executive team was something everyone expected. But Kershaw’s choice goes against the grain of many post-retirement stars he didn’t pursue a chair of power, didn’t dive into coaching, didn’t seek a new launchpad in baseball.
Instead, he chose family.Kershaw has long been known as a man who puts his wife and children first. Even when he was playing, he always tried to balance his career with his personal life. Now, having put away his glove and the stadium lights, he wants to make up for the time baseball once took.
The Dodgers while regretful fully respect the decision. It’s clear within the team that Kershaw is not just a talent, but a man of principle. He wouldn’t take on a role he couldn’t fully commit to, and at this stage in his life, his priorities lie outside the field.
Many MLB experts believe that even if Kershaw doesn’t take on a full-time role, the door to a partnership remains open. Part-time roles, special advisor roles, or occasional appearances at spring training are all possible in the future if they work with his family schedule.
For Dodgers fans, the feeling is likely a mix of regret and pride. Sad that an icon who could help shape the next generation of the organization isn’t stepping into an executive role. But proud that Kershaw has stayed true to himself, and that his decision reflects the kind of down-to-earth, down-to-earth legend he is.
Whether he’s no longer playing or working full-time in the organization, Clayton Kershaw will always be a part of the Dodgers’ soul—and no title can change that.
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