Dave Roberts Makes Surprising Clayton Kershaw Announcement as Dodgers Veteran Plays Final Regular Season Game

If you thought the Dodgers’ final regular-season game was just another formality, think again. Manager Dave Roberts is shaking things up while Clayton Kershaw toes the mound for what could be the last start of his storied career. In Los Angeles, even farewells come with a twist: strategy meets sentiment, and fans are left wondering whether the veteran lefty will pitch or just inspire from the dugout.

Clayton Kershaw is one of the greatest pitchers of this generation and one of the greatest of all time. So when the postseason hits, you expect him to be on the team and show why he is praised so much. We all knew that he would not be in the starting rotation in the postseason, but after Dave Roberts used him as a reliever against the D-Backs, there was hope of seeing him again. But that is not the case, as Insider David Vassegh posted, “Clayton Kershaw will not be available for Wild Card series after starting today. Kershaw would be available if #Dodgers advance per Dave Roberts.“

Clayton Kershaw will take the mound for the Dodgers’ final regular-season game, closing an era gracefully. Fans know he won’t be on the Wild Card roster, leaving a bittersweet sense of absence in the clubhouse. Still, the silver lining is clear: his postseason exclusion is limited to this short series, not the entire playoffs. There’s hope Kershaw could return later, letting supporters imagine one more magical appearance in Dodgers blue.

Clayton Kershaw will not be available for Wild Card series after starting today. Kershaw would be available if #Dodgers advance per Dave Roberts.

— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) September 28, 2025

Even with emotions in play, Kershaw’s presence in the bullpen would make practical sense given Los Angeles’ struggles. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ relief corps has faltered in recent weeks, leaving leads vulnerable in high-pressure situations. Kershaw’s experience and adaptability could provide both stability and confidence, even if he can’t match his peak velocity anymore. For fans and teammates alike, knowing he could still impact crucial moments keeps anticipation and excitement alive.

For all the postseason planning, the Dodgers know Kershaw’s experience still outweighs any bullpen metrics. Dave Roberts might bench him for strategy, but fans know Kershaw’s presence commands respect and attention. Even in relief, Clayton Kershaw’s aura alone can calm Dodgers teammates and rattle opposing lineups alike. The postseason may be short, but Kershaw’s legacy ensures Los Angeles won’t forget his final season impact. Strategically or sentimentally, the Dodgers are proving that sometimes baseball decisions require brains and just a little heart.

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