Los Angeles—Clayton Kershaw’s last walk off the Dodger Stadium mound was everything you’d expect from a legend.
With one out in the fifth inning on Friday night, Sept. 19, 2025, manager Dave Roberts emerged from the dugout, and the sellout crowd knew what was coming.
Roberts paused for nearly 30 seconds before crossing the third base line. He let Kershaw, his teammates, and the sold out crowd of 53,037 tearful Dodgers fans soak in the moment.
The ovation was deafening, stretching nearly four minutes. Fans stood, applauded, and cheered as Kershaw—18 years of brilliance stitched into Dodger blue—tipped his cap. Teammates and coaches met him with long embraces, the kind that say more than words ever could. Before disappearing into the dugout, he was pulled back out for a curtain call.
A nearly 4-minute standing ovation and curtain call as he leaves the mound for the final time at Dodger Stadium. Goosebumps. Get your tissues ready. 😢 pic.twitter.com/HJKGlhJqS1
— Michael J. Duarte (@michaeljduarte) September 20, 2025
His wife Ellen and their four children stood in the stands, visibly emotional, watching the patriarch of their family and the face of the franchise for the last two decades soak in one last moment at Chavez Ravine.
Kershaw, who on Thursday announced his retirement at season’s end, leaves behind a career that cements him among the all-time greats: three NL Cy Young Awards, an MVP, two World Series championships, 11 All-Star appearances, and a legacy built on dominance and devotion.
It wasn’t just a goodbye. It was a celebration—the end of an era in Los Angeles, and the final bow of a pitcher who defined a generation.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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