Clayton Kershaw's Team USA Role for 2026 WBC Surfaces, Full Stats from Dodgers Icon's Tune-Up Outing

Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw returned to the mound for the first time since playing his final MLB game in the fall.

Kershaw suited up for Team USA in its exhibition against the Colorado Rockies before the World Baseball Classic. The 37-year-old went 2/3 inning, giving up a hit, two runs and a walk. He threw 13 pitches, six of which were strikes.

According to ESPN's Jesse Rogers, Team USA manager Mark DeRosa said Kershaw will be used in "break glass in case of emergency" situations during the WBC.

Kershaw, who announced his retirement in September after 18 MLB seasons, is coming off a decent year for the Dodgers in which he recorded an 11-2 record with a 3.36 ERA and a 1.22 WHIP. He pitched twice during the postseason, appearing in one inning during the World Series.

While Kershaw ended his MLB career after the Dodgers' World Series victory, he said in January that he wanted the chance to compete for Team USA.

"I am throwing just enough to make it for 10 days," Kershaw told Andy McCullough of The Athletic. "I'm not pitching this season — so I figured this is the perfect time to try the WBC. I really want to be a part of it."

Kershaw's first outing for Team USA was far from his best, but it's better to get that kind of performance behind him now rather than when it matters.

The United States will play its first WBC game on Friday against Brazil, where San Francisco Giants star Logan Webb will start on the mound.