Clayton Kershaw has accomplished plenty during his illustrious career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but starting an All-Star Game oddly is not among a long list of achievements.
From 2011-2017, Kershaw earned seven consecutive All-Star selections, won a Gold Glove, three Cy Young Awards and was named National League MVP. He last was an All-Star in 2019.
Despite being considered by many the best pitcher of his generation, various circumstances have prevented Kershaw from starting in a Midsummer Classic. But with the 2022 All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium, there’s been growing support for the left-hander to receive the nod.
During an interview with David Vassegh on AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, Kershaw said starting the All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium would be something he’d greatly appreciate:
“I think it would be pretty special. Dodger Stadium means a lot to me. Obviously I’ve been here a long time. Getting to do that here would be pretty special. Like you said before, I think I’ve had some chances in the past to maybe have done it, but for whatever reason it didn’t work out. So if I was able to do it, that would be awesome. But once again, I don’t want to take anything away. I know there’s some guys that are having some great seasons, so I completely understand if it doesn’t work out.”
While the longtime Dodgers ace is enjoying a strong season, working against him with respect to a potential All-Star Game start is time spent on the injured list while recovering from right SI joint inflammation.
As a result, the 34-year-old has only pitched 56 innings this season. Kershaw also has been a bit overshadowed by teammates Tyler Anderson and Tony Gonsolin.
When taking a broader look at NL pitchers, the Miami Marlins’ Sandy Alcantara also is in the conversation to receive the nod.
Kershaw doesn’t want All-Star selection over Dodgers teammate
When previously discussing MLB’s jewel event, Kershaw made it clear he did not want any sort of legacy selection.
“It’s at Dodger Stadium, I’ve been here a long time, I get all that,” Kershaw acknowledged. “But I don’t want to take anybody’s spot that’s more deserving than me, and especially if that guy’s on my team.”
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