Major League Baseball: ‘Don’t Take It For Granted’: Young All-Stars Dazzle as Clayton Kershaw Receives Recognition
ATLANTA — At 9:58 p.m royal 888 ph login. local time, Clayton Kershaw exited the press conference room deep within Truist Park after notching two outs in his 11th All-Star Game. Unexpectedly, he was stopped by a fan—Pedro Martinez—who wanted to congratulate Kershaw on his performance, express his admiration for the 18-year veteran, and request a couple of photos with his family.
Kershaw gladly obliged. “You’re the closest thing to me,” the current Hall of Famer told the future Hall of Famer, prompting a hearty laugh from Kershaw. taya365.con The 95th All-Star Game showcased a new era of baseball, featuring numerous young superstars, an automated ball-strike challenge system, and the first-ever swing-off to break a tie. Yet, Kershaw served as a tribute to the sport’s rich history and a reminder of why, even when many players opted out, the event remains a prestigious honor for those invited.
Before the game commenced, Kershaw shared this message when manager Dave Roberts gave him the chance to speak at the National League All-Star team meeting. “We’re all a lot younger than him, so he was saying, ‘Don’t take it for granted,’” recalled Giants starter Logan Webb. “It was really cool. It was special for me, getting to grow up watching him. I respect him so much.”
“The All-Star Game can be tough for the players,” said Kershaw. “There’s a lot of travel, stress, chaos, and family obligations. But it’s meaningful and impactful for the game. It’s important for the sport. We have the best All-Star Game of any sport, and it’s vital to recognize your responsibility within it.”
However, this year, it took Kershaw some time to embrace the honor. Upon learning he would be an All-Star again, he felt undeserving. The commissioner’s office selected him as a “legend pick” in light of his illustrious career after he became the 20th player to join the 3,000-strikeout club earlier this month—a distinction that will likely remain exclusive for years to come. This acknowledgment felt somewhat like a farewell gesture, and he isn’t ready to declare this season as his last. Additionally, despite a 3.38 ERA, he believed his selection was not justified taya 365 login casino.
“You don’t want to take someone else’s spot,” Kershaw remarked. “You never want to be seen as a sideshow; you just want to be part of it if you deserve it.” He began to feel better about the situation once he realized he would be included as an extra player, not taking a roster spot from a pitcher with a stronger first half. Ultimately, he was grateful he decided to participate. “I had my whole family here to see me pitch in an All-Star Game again,” Kershaw said. “I didn’t think it would happen, so it was pretty cool.”
Kershaw’s tough exterior has softened over the years, allowing him to appreciate each moment he has left on a Major League Baseball field. This was evident when he wore a microphone on the mound, something he never thought he would do—an act that surprised even those who know him well.
“I’m getting messages from former teammates saying, ‘Wow, you’ve changed so much,’” Kershaw shared. “And they’re right. I never thought I’d do that.” But he embraced it and even found joy in the experience. “It was actually kind of fun,” Kershaw admitted milyom88. niceph slot login register
In the eighth inning, rookie Jacob Misiorowski’s first fastball hit 101.7 mph, while Kershaw’s first pitch to Cal Raleigh was clocked at 89 mph. “I’m going to try to throw some cheese real quick, hold on,” Kershaw joked before delivering the pitch. Raleigh hit a line drive into left field, snagged by sliding Kyle Tucker. “That was sick,” Kershaw said.
After striking out Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Kershaw’s two-batter appearance came to a close. Departing mid-inning allowed him to soak in the crowd’s applause. Roberts emerged from the dugout, and Kershaw thanked his teammates, attempting to give the baseball to his manager. “That’s yours,” Roberts replied. “I keep it?” Kershaw asked with a smile as fans rose to their feet, acknowledging what could be his final All-Star performance.
“However long he wants to play,” said Padres reliever Jason Adam, “he should be in every All-Star Game.” Adam stepped in from the bullpen to relieve Kershaw in the second inning, describing it as one of the coolest experiences of his career. “I’m thankful he didn’t leave anybody on base for me,” Adam noted. “You don’t want the weight of a Hall of Famer’s runs on base in an All-Star Game.”
Kershaw vividly recalls his first All-Star Game back in 2011 when he stood in the outfield alongside Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay—players he admired. On Tuesday, the 37-year-old became the oldest pitcher to strike out a batter in the All-Star Game since Fernando Rodney in 2016. Kershaw is now tied with Mike Trout for the most All-Star selections among active players.
“Now, being on the other side of it is strange,” Kershaw said. “It happens fast.” Therefore, he tries to cherish every opportunity he has until he decides to hang up his cleats. Before leaving the stadium, Martinez reminded him of what awaits him when that time comes: “I’m going to be waiting for you,” Martinez said, “in Cooperstown.”
What are your thoughts on Clayton Kershaw’s significant achievements and his impact on the game?