Story perspectives

Kershaw Hits 3,000 Strikeouts as Dodgers Eye Title

9/20/2025

Center

Kershaw's Milestone Retirement

Clayton Kershaw reached his 3,000th strikeout on July 2 and will retire after the season, ending an 18-year career with the Dodgers.
His last regular-season start at Dodger Stadium featured a standing ovation and hugs from teammates.
Kershaw has played a vital role in the Dodgers' success, winning two World Series and three Cy Young Awards.
Mookie Betts aims to win a World Series at home, having never done so before.
The Dodgers secured their 13th consecutive postseason spot with a 6-3 win over the Giants, supported by home runs from Shohei Ohtani and Betts.

Right

Castellanos Comments on Incident

Nick Castellanos commented on a viral incident at a Phillies game where a woman demanded a home run ball from a father and son, attributing her behavior to frustration.
The Phillies and Marlins responded by gifting the boy, Lincoln, a fan prize pack for his birthday, and outfielder Harrison Bader met with the family.
Mookie Betts is revitalizing his performance with help from ex-Met J.D. Martinez as the Dodgers prepare for October despite bullpen issues.
The Angels are weighing managerial options, including reappointing Ron Washington or keeping interim manager Ray Montgomery.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, Major League Baseball introduced the Wild Card playoff system, reshaping postseason competition. This change allowed teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have made 13 consecutive playoff appearances, to thrive. Star pitcher Clayton Kershaw, achieving over 3,000 strikeouts and winning two World Series titles, exemplifies the growing significance of elite pitchers in postseason success, reflecting evolving strategies in competitive baseball.

1 of 3

Kershaw's Milestone Retirement

Clayton Kershaw reached his 3,000th strikeout on July 2 and will retire after the season, ending an 18-year career with the Dodgers.
His last regular-season start at Dodger Stadium featured a standing ovation and hugs from teammates.
Kershaw has played a vital role in the Dodgers' success, winning two World Series and three Cy Young Awards.
Mookie Betts aims to win a World Series at home, having never done so before.
The Dodgers secured their 13th consecutive postseason spot with a 6-3 win over the Giants, supported by home runs from Shohei Ohtani and Betts.

1 / 3