Kansas City – Mound legend Clayton Kershaw is just three strikeouts away from joining a select group in Major League history, as he seeks 3,000 strikeouts. With 2,997 strikeouts to his name, the Dodgers of Los Angeles’ star pitcher could reach this figure on Wednesday at Dodger Stadium, in his 441st game in the MLB (338 as a starter), facing the White Sox. Kershaw, who has dedicated his 18-year career to the same team, is poised to be the twentieth pitcher in Major League history to reach 3,000 strikeouts, and only the fourth left-hander to achieve it, following in the footsteps of CC Sabathia, Randy Johnson, and Steve Carlton. Furthermore, he would be the third to achieve it with a single franchise, alongside legends like Walter Johnson (Senators) and Bob Gibson (Cardinals).
This achievement is becoming increasingly difficult to reach due to the increase in bullpen usage and the decrease in long starts. Only two active pitchers have surpassed 3,000 strikeouts: Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander. The closest, Chris Sale (2,528) and Gerrit Cole (2,251), would need several more seasons and perfect health to achieve it. The game is changing. There are many dominant relievers, and that reduces opportunities for starters. Even so, there are pitchers with the ability to do it, they just need the opportunity. Kershaw has witnessed and been a protagonist in an era of changes in baseball. His consistency, durability, and dominance on the mound position him as one of the best left-handed pitchers in the history of the game, heading towards the Hall of Fame.I think Kershaw embodies what it means to adapt or die. He has constantly changed and evolved as a pitcher.
Jack Dreyer, teammate
To put the feat in perspective, the 2024 strikeout leader, Tarik Skubal, finished with 225. It would take at least 13 seasons at that pace to reach 3,000. Kershaw has been exceptional. What he has done in this era of baseball is extraordinary. What we are witnessing may not be repeated. Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager With his next home start, in front of his fans, and on the verge of a historic mark, the baseball world will be watching to see if Kershaw writes another golden chapter in his already legendary career.He has one of the best repertoires of all time. Probably the best left-handed pitcher we’ve seen.
Justin Wrobleski, teammate
