Dodgers fans, baseball lovers, and just about anyone who’s ever tried to hurl a ball with some spin had their eyes locked on Clayton Kershaw—and boy, he did not disappoint. At 37 years old, the longtime Dodgers ace delivered a performance that’ll be replayed for years, striking out White Sox third baseman Vinny Capra in the sixth inning to notch career strikeout number 3,000. That’s right—three thousand Ks.
Only the 20th in MLB History for Dodgers
Take a second to appreciate just how rare this air is. Kershaw becomes only the 20th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to reach this elusive mark. We’re talking over a century of professional baseball, thousands of pitchers, and only twenty have ever done it. And the last guy to join this club was Max Scherzer, back in 2021. That’s a pretty exclusive party, and Kershaw’s name got etched onto the guest list in permanent ink.
Classic Kershaw: Poise and Precision Under Pressure
This wasn’t just another milestone. This was the culmination of nearly two decades of dominance, precision, and—let’s be honest here—some of the most devastating curveballs the game has ever seen. Kershaw didn’t sneak into this club. He kicked the door down with yet another stellar outing. Needing just three strikeouts coming into the game, fans at Dodger Stadium held their breath every time he got two strikes on a batter. And when he caught Capra looking, the place erupted—Vintage Kershaw—cool, calm, and entirely in control.
Adding to a Hall of Fame Résumé
But here’s the thing: this isn’t just about numbers. It’s about legacy. Kershaw’s been the face of pitching excellence for the better part of the last 15 years. MVP, multiple Cy Youngs, a World Series ring—he’s done it all. And now, with 3,000 strikeouts to his name, he’s not just a legend in L.A., he’s a certified icon in baseball history.
So while Kershaw may be in the twilight of his career, moments like these remind us all why we’ve been glued to our screens every fifth day he takes the mound. You can’t write the story of modern baseball without Clayton Kershaw—and now, with strikeout 3,000 in the books, he’s etched that story one letter deeper in greatness.
