Two MLB icons—Clayton Kershaw and Shohei Ohtani—shared a unique bond built on respect and admiration. As Kershaw closes the book on his legendary career, he leaves behind a record even Ohtani couldn’t break.
Mutual Respect Between Two Baseball Legends
Shohei Ohtani (31, LA Dodgers) drew attention this season for his admiration of one particular player’s performance. After games, if he wanted to highlight a teammate, he would post that player’s photo on his social media as a sign of respect—a routine for him. Clayton Kershaw (37) was a regular on Ohtani’s “list.”
Ohtani admitted that simply watching Kershaw up close was an enormous help. Kershaw debuted in MLB in 2008 and pitched in 455 games (451 starts) over 18 seasons—a true legend. Ohtani explained that you could understand how Kershaw survived so long in such a tough league just by observing his preparation between starts. He trained relentlessly and prepared meticulously, which amazed Ohtani and taught him a lot.
Kershaw, in turn, never held back his admiration for Ohtani, who became one of MLB’s greatest players. Despite being younger, Ohtani achieved what was once thought impossible—excelling as both a pitcher and hitter. Kershaw repeatedly expressed respect for that feat.
Having watched Ohtani’s preparation process firsthand, Kershaw couldn’t help but acknowledge it. Both players discovered “hidden truths” about each other that weren’t visible from the opposing dugout and gave each other a thumbs-up.
Kershaw’s Badge of Honor: Ohtani Never Got a Hit
Now, Kershaw has ended his career after two seasons as Ohtani’s teammate. But Kershaw has one “badge of honor”: he never allowed a single hit to Ohtani in regular-season play. For a future Hall of Famer, that’s something to brag about.
Kershaw, now enjoying a stress-free offseason, appeared on the popular U.S. sports talk show The Dan Patrick Show on November 9 and cheerfully reflected on his career. Away from the intensity of competition, Kershaw answered questions with a smile, including those about Ohtani.
When asked if he ever faced Ohtani during his Angels days, Kershaw laughed:
“Of course. Check the stats—I’ve never given up a hit to Shohei. And now that I’m retired, that record will stand forever.”
Patrick confirmed Kershaw held Ohtani hitless in 11 regular-season at-bats with four strikeouts. Kershaw chuckled: “That feels great. I’ll be in a good mood all day.”
Not entirely hitless—Ohtani did get a single off Kershaw in the 2022 All-Star Game when Kershaw started for the NL and Ohtani led off for the AL. But that was an exhibition. In regular-season play, Ohtani never reached base against Kershaw—a rare feat given Ohtani’s talent.
Patrick asked how Kershaw approached pitching to Ohtani. Kershaw replied: “That’s a question other pitchers ask too. You can’t throw him average-speed pitches. My velocity now is pretty average, so I’m not sure I’d fare well today. Against Ohtani, you need either a really fast pitch or a slow curve.”
Did Kershaw ever joke about this record to Ohtani? He said no: “I never brought it up. I didn’t know how he’d take it.”
Knowing Ohtani’s character, he probably wouldn’t mind, but Kershaw avoided mentioning it out of respect. Both players were proud of each other.
What’s Next for Kershaw? Family First
Meanwhile, Kershaw has announced a break. Many expect him to take a role with the Dodgers eventually—they want him to remain a lifelong Dodger.
But for now, Kershaw is preparing for the birth of his fifth child and plans to focus on family life. That’s why he retired voluntarily, without pressure. Kershaw said:
“Most importantly, our fifth child is coming. I’ll be a dad for now and spend time with my family. I’m not planning to take a full-time job anytime soon.”
The Dodgers will likely bring him back once his family duties ease.
Source: www.spotvnews.co.kr
