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Jeff Hoffman Steps In for Kershaw in Semifinals

3/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jeff Hoffman, a reliever, will replace Clayton Kershaw for the United States in the World Baseball Classic semifinal against the Dominican Republic on Sunday.
The change follows Team USA's 5-3 victory over Canada, and Kershaw will remain with the team throughout the tournament.
Hoffman, 33, formerly with the Toronto Blue Jays, posted a 4.37 ERA in the 2025 season.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural World Baseball Classic in 2006 featured 16 nations, including the USA, Japan, and Cuba, competing to elevate baseball's global profile. The tournament, held from March 3 to March 20, aimed to showcase international talent and foster competition. The USA's roster included stars like Derek Jeter, reflecting the event's significance in promoting baseball worldwide and the evolving strategies in high-stakes tournaments.

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Story summary

Jeff Hoffman, a reliever, will replace Clayton Kershaw for the United States in the World Baseball Classic semifinal against the Dominican Republic on Sunday.
The change follows Team USA's 5-3 victory over Canada, and Kershaw will remain with the team throughout the tournament.
Hoffman, 33, formerly with the Toronto Blue Jays, posted a 4.37 ERA in the 2025 season.

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