Cody Snavely
It was reported yesterday that Kershaw had complications getting cleared to play in the World Baseball Classic this March. However, today Clayton Kershaw announced that he will no longer be playing for team USA in the international tourtment.
While Kershaw would not identify the exact reason for the complications that led him to withdraw, the most likely scenario was that Kershaw’s recent injury history was a red flag for the insurance policy that these players are covered by to participate in the event.
A similar scenario played out for current Twins pitcher Sonny Gray who in 2017 was attempting to pitch for Team USA and was denied due to not meeting some requirements after twice missing time with injuries last year. Gray spent more than 60 days on the disabled list, he was on the DL in late August, and when he returned, he didn’t pitch more than ten innings.
While it is a bummer that the Dodgers legend and the face of the franchise cannot compete for the World Baseball Classic Title with Team USA, it is also a blessing in disguise so that Kershaw can take his time and prepare for the 2023 regular season for the Dodgers.
