Dodgers Mourn Loss of Kershaw's Presence

Pitching coach Mark Prior reflects on the impact of Clayton Kershaw's retirement from the team.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior opened up about the void left by Clayton Kershaw's retirement, praising the future Hall of Famer's work ethic and ability to energize the team even on long road trips and quick turnarounds. Prior acknowledged that Kershaw's absence will make things "a little quieter" around the clubhouse.

Why it matters

Kershaw was a cornerstone of the Dodgers' success over the past 18 seasons, winning 11 All-Star selections, two World Series titles, and establishing himself as one of the greatest pitchers of his era. His retirement leaves a significant leadership void that the team will need to fill as they aim to defend their World Series championship.

The details

In a guest appearance on 'Dodgers Territory,' Prior shared his honest assessment of how Kershaw's retirement will impact the team. He praised Kershaw's tireless work ethic and ability to energize his teammates, even during the grind of a long season. Prior noted that the clubhouse will be "a little quieter" and the "music a little softer" without Kershaw's presence.

  • Kershaw announced his retirement in September 2025, just before the Dodgers won the World Series.
  • The 2026 MLB season is right around the corner, making Kershaw's absence more pronounced.

The players

Mark Prior

The Los Angeles Dodgers' pitching coach, who worked closely with Clayton Kershaw during his illustrious career.

Clayton Kershaw

An 11-time MLB All-Star and two-time World Series champion who played 18 seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, establishing himself as one of the greatest pitchers of his era.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's gonna be different without his presence. You've been around him enough, and you've seen it. He has a presence on what he does to prepare. I think that everybody's documented that. But he's also an energy giver when people don't realize it, or don't see it. I mean, this guy, when road trips are getting long, or it's early nights, or a quick turnaround, Sunday day games, this guy will get people going.”

— Mark Prior, Dodgers Pitching Coach (Dodgers Territory)

“It's gonna be a little quieter in the weight room. The music's gonna be a little softer. I'll be missing him around. I feel very blessed and fortunate that I had a chance to just be a small part in his career. And he taught me so much about how to be a coach. He was a pleasure to work with.”

— Mark Prior, Dodgers Pitching Coach (Dodgers Territory)

What’s next

Kershaw will participate in the World Baseball Classic in early March with Team USA, giving Dodgers fans one more chance to see the future Hall of Famer in action before his retirement becomes official.

The takeaway

Kershaw's retirement leaves a significant void in the Dodgers' clubhouse, both in terms of his on-field production and his ability to energize and lead his teammates. The team will need to find new ways to maintain the winning culture and team chemistry that Kershaw helped foster during his illustrious career.