Kershaw Enjoys Team USA Debut Despite Struggles

Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw gave up a home run but was thrilled to represent his country in the World Baseball Classic exhibition game.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw made his debut for Team USA in an exhibition game against the Colorado Rockies, giving up a home run but thoroughly enjoying the experience of playing for his national team. Kershaw, who retired after 18 seasons with the Dodgers, is part of the Team USA pitching staff for the World Baseball Classic.

Why it matters

Kershaw's participation in the World Baseball Classic is a significant milestone in his storied career, as he looks to represent his country on the international stage one last time before fully retiring from baseball.

The details

Kershaw entered the game in the fourth inning and gave up a leadoff home run to Mickey Moniak. He retired the next batter but then issued a walk before being removed from the game. Despite the struggles, Kershaw was thrilled to wear the Team USA uniform and receive a standing ovation from the crowd.

  • Kershaw made his Team USA debut on Wednesday, March 5, 2026.
  • Team USA defeated the Colorado Rockies 14-4 in the exhibition game.

The players

Clayton Kershaw

A legendary pitcher who spent his entire 18-year MLB career with the Los Angeles Dodgers before retiring. He is now making his debut with Team USA for the World Baseball Classic.

Mickey Moniak

A Colorado Rockies outfielder who hit a home run off of Kershaw during the exhibition game.

Mark DeRosa

The manager of the Team USA squad for the World Baseball Classic.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was so cool. I played against Colorado and Arizona a lot, so to hear that was special. ... Just being on this team was a bucket list for me from the beginning, and so getting to do that, it was really cool.”

— Clayton Kershaw (USA Today)

“Obviously, I thought I was never going to throw a baseball again, so to get to do that with Team USA across your chest, and come back to that dugout, that team is really special.”

— Clayton Kershaw (USA Today)

What’s next

Kershaw is expected to continue pitching in relief roles for Team USA as they prepare for the World Baseball Classic tournament.

The takeaway

Kershaw's participation in the World Baseball Classic represents a fitting capstone to his illustrious career, as he gets to don the Team USA uniform and compete on the international stage one final time before retirement.