Clayton Kershaw

Kershaw was born in Dallas, Texas. His parents divorced when he was 10, and he was raised by his mother.{{Cite magazine|last=Verducci|first=Tom|author-link=Tom Verducci|date=November 29, 2012|title=My Sportsman: Clayton Kershaw|url=https://www.si.com/sportsperson/2012/11/29/clayton-kershaw-tom-verducci|url-status=live|access-date=January 9, 2022|magazine=Sports Illustrated|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110034651/https://www.si.com/sportsperson/2012/11/29/clayton-kershaw-tom-verducci |archive-date=January 10, 2022 }} He played in youth sports leagues as a child, including Little League Baseball.{{cite web|url=http://jrdodgers.mlblogs.com/2010/01/29/childhood-friends-clayton-kershaw-matthew-stafford/|title=Childhood Friends: Clayton Kershaw & Matthew Stafford|access-date=September 5, 2013|date=January 29, 2010|work=Jr. Dodgers Blog}}{{Cite magazine |date=January 29, 2010 |title=When Pro Athletes Were In Little League |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1207/pro-athletes-in-little-league/content.15.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130408003237/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1207/pro-athletes-in-little-league/content.15.html |archive-date=April 8, 2013 |access-date=September 5, 2013 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}

Kershaw attended nearby Highland Park High School, where he played baseball and was also the center for future NFL quarterback Matthew Stafford on the varsity football team.{{cite web|first=Alan |last=Matthews |url=http://www.baseballamerica.com/high-school/kershaw-could-cash-in-on-rapid-rise-1426/|title=Kershaw Could Cash In On Rapid Rise|access-date=September 5, 2013|date=May 24, 2006|work=Baseball America}} After a growth spurt and further development of his pitches, he established himself as an elite high school prospect in 2006 when he posted a 13–0 record with an earned run average (ERA) of 0.77, and recorded 139 strikeouts in 64 innings pitched. In a playoff game against Northwest High School of Justin, Texas, Kershaw pitched an all-strikeout perfect game; he struck out all 15 batters he faced in the game, which was shortened because of the mercy rule. He also hit a grand slam.{{cite web|url=http://www.chron.com/news/article/PRN-Clayton-Kershaw-Named-Gatorade-National-1484662.php|title=(PRN) Clayton Kershaw Named Gatorade National Baseball Player of the Year|access-date=August 22, 2013|date=June 5, 2006|last=PRNewswire |work=Houston Chronicle Online}} He also pitched for USA Baseball's Junior National Team in the Pan Am Championship. Kershaw was selected by USA Today as "High School Baseball Player of the Year", and was also the Gatorade National Player of the Year for baseball.{{cite web|url=http://www.texasmonthly.com/story/clayton-kershaw|title=Clayton Kershaw|access-date=August 22, 2013|date=February 2008|work=Texas Monthly}}

Entering the 2006 MLB draft, Kershaw was considered the consensus top high school pitcher available.{{cite web|first=Tot|last=Holmes|url=http://dodgers.scout.com/2/540897.html|title=First Round Pick Clayton Kershaw Signs|access-date=September 13, 2013|date=June 19, 2006|work=scout.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017063639/http://dodgers.scout.com/2/540897.html|archive-date=October 17, 2013|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web |last=Remsberg |first=Matt |date=June 5, 2006 |title=Prep prospects prepare for draft while still in playoffs |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/highschool/06/05/draft.preview/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130913192057/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/highschool/06/05/draft.preview/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 13, 2013 |access-date=September 13, 2013 |website=SI.com}} The Los Angeles Dodgers selected Kershaw with the seventh overall pick in the draft.{{cite news |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/draft/y2006/tracker/search.jsp|title=2006 First-Year Player Draft Tracker|access-date=August 22, 2013|work=mlb.com}} He had committed to Texas A&M University, but turned down the scholarship offer to sign with the Dodgers,{{cite web|url=http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/2012/12/a-clayton-kershaw-sighting.html/|title=A&M notes: Aggies' biggest concerns against Sooners; Clayton Kershaw sighting|access-date=August 22, 2013|date=December 31, 2012|last=Heika|first=Mike|work=The Dallas Morning News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017121751/http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/2012/12/a-clayton-kershaw-sighting.html/|archive-date=October 17, 2013|url-status=dead}} with a bonus estimated at $2.3 million. At the time, it was the largest bonus conferred on any Dodgers draft pick and remained so until it was topped by the $5.25 million that Zach Lee, another Texas high school pitcher, earned from the 2010 draft.{{Cite news |last1=Bolch |first1=Ben |last2=Baxter |first2=Kevin |date=August 16, 2010 |title=Dodgers, Angels sign their top draft picks |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2010-aug-16-la-sp-0817-baseball-draft-20100817-story.html |access-date=August 22, 2013 |newspaper=LA Times}}

Kershaw began his career with the Gulf Coast League (GCL) Dodgers. He pitched 37 innings in which he struck out 54 batters (walking only five), while compiling a record of 2–0 with a 1.95 ERA.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/team.cgi?id=af68d59a|title=2006 GCL Dodgers|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=August 22, 2013}} He featured a fastball that topped out at {{convert|96|mph}}{{cite web|url=http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/is-clayton-kershaw-worth-the-hype/|title=Is Clayton Kershaw worth the hype?|date=May 13, 2008|last=Eisenberg|first=Alex|work=hardballtimes.com|access-date=August 22, 2013}} and he was rated as the top prospect in the GCL,{{cite web|url=http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/gulf-coast-league-top-20-prospects-list-2460/|title=Gulf Coast League Top 20 Prospects List|access-date=August 22, 2013|date=September 20, 2006|last=Matthews|first=Alan|work=Baseball America}} and the Dodgers' second best prospect by Baseball America behind third baseman Andy LaRoche.{{cite web|url=http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/rankings/organization-top-10-prospects/2007/263364.html|title=Top 10 Prospects: LA Dodgers|date=February 20, 2007|last=Matthews|first=Alan|work=Baseball America|access-date=August 22, 2013}}

Kershaw was promoted to the Great Lakes Loons in 2007, with whom he recorded a record of 7–5 with a 2.77 ERA.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/team.cgi?id=0dc25a34|title=2007 Great Lakes Loons|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=August 22, 2013}} He was selected to play on the East Team in the Midwest League All-Star Game{{cite web|url=http://athletics.scout.com/2/653263.html|title=East Beats West In Midwest League ASG|date=June 20, 2007|last=Bailey|first=Matt|work=scout.com|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=October 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006185546/http://athletics.scout.com/2/653263.html|url-status=dead}} and on the USA team in the All-Star Futures Game.{{cite web|url=http://blog.mlive.com/saginaw_sports_extra/2007/06/kershaw_to_appear_in_futures_g.html|title=Kershaw to appear in Futures Game|date=June 21, 2007|last=Bernreuter|first=Hugh|work=mlive.com|access-date=August 22, 2013}} On August 6, he was promoted to the Double-A Jacksonville Suns in the Southern League,{{cite web|url=http://dodgers.scout.com/2/665653.html|title=Kershaw Promoted to Jacksonville|access-date=August 26, 2013|last=Shelley|first=Bill|date=August 7, 2007|work=scout.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006175502/http://dodgers.scout.com/2/665653.html|archive-date=October 6, 2014|url-status=dead}} where he produced a 1–2 record and 3.65 ERA in five starts{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/team.cgi?id=7893b736|title=2007 Jacksonville Suns|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=August 22, 2013}} and was selected as the top prospect in the Dodgers organization heading into the 2008 season.{{cite web|url=http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/rankings/organization-top-10-prospects/2008/265295.html|title=Top 10 Prospects: Los Angeles Dodgers|access-date=August 22, 2013|last=Matthews|first=Alan|date=December 3, 2007|work=Baseball America}}

During spring training in a game against the Boston Red Sox, Kershaw gained much attention for throwing a curveball to Sean Casey that started behind Casey but at the end looped into the strike zone and struck him out looking.{{Cite web |last=Passan |first=Jeff |author-link=Jeff Passan |date=May 14, 2008 |title=Clayton Kershaw's great expectations |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-kershaw051408&prov=yhoo&type=lgns |access-date=November 25, 2008 |website=Yahoo! Sports}} Kershaw was 0–3 and had a 2.28 ERA with 47 strikeouts through {{fraction|43|1|3}} innings pitched in his first stint of the year with the Suns.{{cite web|url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-403454|title=Dodgers call up Kershaw for Sunday|last=Gurnick|first=Ken|date=May 25, 2008|work=Minor League Baseball|access-date=August 22, 2013}} He was then called up to the majors on May 24, 2008, but optioned back to Jacksonville on July 2.{{cite web|url=http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3672933|title=Suns Split Doubleheader, Kershaw Optioned to Jacksonville|date=July 2, 2008|work=oursportscentral.com|access-date=August 22, 2013}}

Kershaw pitched 18 innings during his second trip to Jacksonville (two starts and one seven-inning relief appearance), winning two games. During this stretch, he allowed only two earned runs, lowering his ERA to 1.91. He was recalled on July 22.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-jul-22-sp-dodfyi22-story.html|title=Kershaw will be recalled|access-date=August 22, 2013|last=Hernandez|first=Dylan|date=July 22, 2008|newspaper=LA Times}}

File:CLAYTON KERSHAW (2742905834).jpg

On May 24, 2008, the Dodgers bought Kershaw's minor-league contract, and he was added to the active roster.{{cite news|last=Baxter|first=Kevin|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-may-24-sp-dodrep24-story.html|title=Kershaw likely to be called up|date=May 24, 2008|newspaper=LA Times |access-date=August 23, 2013}} Sportswriter Tony Jackson called Kershaw's debut the most anticipated start by a Dodgers pitcher since Hideo Nomo's MLB debut during the 1995 season.{{cite news|url=http://www.insidesocal.com/dodgers/|location=Los Angeles|work=Daily News|title=Inside the Dodgers|date=May 24, 2008|access-date=August 23, 2013}} He made his MLB debut on May 25, starting against the St. Louis Cardinals. He struck out the first batter he faced, Skip Schumaker, the first of seven strikeouts in the game, in which he pitched six innings and allowed two runs.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN200805250.shtml|title=May 25, 2008 St. Louis Cardinals at Los Angeles Dodgers Play by Play and Box Score|work=Baseball Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}} When he debuted, Kershaw was the youngest player in MLB (20 years, 67 days), a title he held for one full year.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/leaders/Youngest_leagues.shtml|title=Yearly League Leaders & Records for Youngest|work=Baseball Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

Kershaw won his first MLB game against the Washington Nationals on July 27, 2008. He pitched six-plus shutout innings, allowing four hits, a walk, and he struck out five.{{cite news|agency=Associated Press |url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/highschools/leaderboard/v3/highlandpark/stories/072808hpkershaw.f6f45e9.html|title=HP's Kershaw gets first win with Dodgers|work=Dallas News|date=July 28, 2008|access-date=August 23, 2013}}{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN200807270.shtml|title=July 27, 2008 Washington Nationals at Los Angeles Dodgers Play by Play and Box Score|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}} Kershaw finished his rookie season 5–5, with a 4.26 ERA in 22 games (21 starts).{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/LAD/2008.shtml|title=2008 Los Angeles Dodgers Batting, Pitching, & Fielding Statistics|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}} He also pitched two innings out of the bullpen for the Dodgers in the 2008 National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Philadelphia Phillies.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2008_NLCS.shtml|title=2008 League Championship Series (4–1): Philadelphia Phillies (92–70) over Los Angeles Dodgers (84–78)|work=Baseball Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

On April 15, 2009, Kershaw pitched seven innings, striking out 13 batters while allowing only one hit (a solo home run) against the rival San Francisco Giants.{{cite news|agency=Associated Press |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=290415119|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090419182331/http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=290415119|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 19, 2009|title=Dodgers rally in ninth to top Giants|work=ESPN|date=April 15, 2009|access-date=August 23, 2013}} On May 17, 2009, Kershaw did not allow a hit against the Florida Marlins through seven innings, then gave up a lead-off double to Florida's Cody Ross.{{cite news|agency=Associated Press|url=http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2009/may/17/mlb-kershaw-takes-no-hit-bid-eighth-dodgers-beat-m/?print=1|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130823173147/http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2009/may/17/mlb-kershaw-takes-no-hit-bid-eighth-dodgers-beat-m/?print=1|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 23, 2013|title=MLB: Kershaw takes no-hit bid into eighth, Dodgers beat Marlins|publisher=naplesnews.com|date=May 17, 2009|access-date=August 23, 2013}} In 2009, despite an 8–8 record, he led the major leagues in opposing batting average (.200), opposing slugging percentage (.282), and hits per nine innings (6.26). He also posted an ERA of 2.79 and 185 strikeouts. Kershaw also walked 91 batters, which was second most in the National League (NL).{{cite web |title=Clayton Kershaw statistics and history |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kershcl01.shtml |access-date=August 23, 2013 |work=Baseball-Reference.com}}

Kershaw made his playoff starting debut against the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2009 National League Division Series (NLDS). He went {{fraction|6|2|3}} innings, striking out four, walking one, and ended up getting a no-decision (the Dodgers went on to win the game in the ninth inning).{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2009_NLDS1.shtml|title=2009 League Division Series (3–0): Los Angeles Dodgers (95–67) over St. Louis Cardinals (91–71)|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}} At 21 years old, he started the opener of the 2009 NLCS against the Philadelphia Phillies and was the third youngest pitcher to ever start a playoff series opener, behind only Fernando Valenzuela in the 1981 NLDS and Rick Ankiel in the 2000 NLDS.{{cite web|last=Schlueter|first=Roger |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/print.jsp?ymd=20111001&content_id=25415086&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb|title=Fascinating facts from Friday's game|work=mlb.com|date=October 1, 2011|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

File:Clayton Kershaw 2010 (2).jpg

Kershaw started the 2010 season by posting a 3.07 ERA in April but did so by walking 22 batters in 29 innings. On May 4, he had the worst start of his career against the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium, throwing just 57 pitches in {{fraction|1|1|3}} innings while retiring only four of the 13 batters he faced—including the pitcher. He was booed loudly upon being pulled from the game. Kershaw said after the game, "I didn't give our team any kind of chance. It's just not a good feeling to let your teammates down, let everybody down. It stings, it hurts. I've got to figure things out."{{cite web|last=Jackson|first=Tony|work=ESPN.com|url=http://espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=300504119|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100525163258/http://espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=300504119|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 25, 2010|title=Fielder, Zaun homers, Braun's double highlight Brewers' big inning|date=May 4, 2010|access-date=September 28, 2011}}

Kershaw rebounded his next start by pitching an eight-inning two-hitter and outdueling the then-undefeated Ubaldo Jiménez.{{cite news|url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/dailypitch/post/2010/05/nl-quick-pitch-/1#.UheYr7wujbs|title=NL Quick Pitch: Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw hands Ubaldo Jimenez first loss|work=USA Today|date=May 10, 2010|last=Livingstone|first=Seth|access-date=August 23, 2013}} He credited his control of the slider being the major turning point for him.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/7006742/los-angeles-dodgers-clayton-kershaw-arrived|title=Clayton Kershaw has arrived|publisher=ESPNLosAngeles.com|date=September 25, 2011|access-date=September 25, 2011|author=Ramona Shelburne}} Later in the season, he was suspended for five games after hitting Aaron Rowand of the Giants with a pitch in a game on July 20. The incident occurred after both teams were given a warning following Giants ace Tim Lincecum hitting Matt Kemp earlier in the game.{{cite news|url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/dailypitch/post/2010/07/clayton-kershaw-and-joe-torre-among-suspended-dodgers/1#.UheX87wujbs|title=Clayton Kershaw and Joe Torre among suspended Dodgers|work=USA Today|date=July 21, 2010|last=Ortiz|first=Jorge L.|access-date=August 23, 2013}} He threw his first career complete game shutout on September 14, 2010, also against San Francisco and finished the season with a record of 13–10 and a 2.91 ERA in 32 starts, pitching {{fraction|204|1|3}} innings and recording 212 strikeouts.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/LAD/2010.shtml|title=2010 Los Angeles Dodgers Batting, Pitching, & Fielding Statistics|work=Baseball-Reference.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

After finishing the 2010 season strong, the Dodgers named Kershaw as the Opening Day Starter for the 2011 season.{{Cite web |last=Jackson |first=Tony |date=February 16, 2011 |title=Clayton Kershaw to start opener |url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/mlb/news/story?id=6128320 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |website=ESPN}} On May 29, he pitched the second complete-game shutout of his career, striking out 10 while winning a two-hitter against the Florida Marlins; he also had two singles and an RBI, scoring twice in the game.{{Cite web |last=Bolch |first=Ben |date=May 29, 2011 |title=It's Clayton Kershaw and Dodgers' hitters who are smokin' this time |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/la-xpm-2011-may-29-la-sp-0530-dodgers-marlins-20110530-story.html |access-date=August 23, 2013 |website=Los Angeles Times}} He produced his third career shutout on June 20, a two-hit, 11-strikeout effort against the Detroit Tigers.{{Cite web |date=June 20, 2011 |title=Kershaw, Dodgers beat Tigers |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=310620119 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110624060039/http://scores.espn.go.com/mlb/recap?gameId=310620119 |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 24, 2011 |access-date=September 28, 2011 |work=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}

In his next start, on June 26, Kershaw pitched another complete game (against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim). He became the first Dodger starter to have back-to-back complete-game victories since Jeff Weaver in the 2005 season and the first Dodger to have double-digit strikeouts in consecutive starts since Chan Ho Park in the 2000 season. He was awarded the National League Player of the Week award for the week of June 20–26 as a result of those two starts.{{Cite web |last=Fordin |first=Spencer |date=June 27, 2011 |title=Huge week nets Kershaw NL honor |url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110627&content_id=21076254&vkey=news_la&c_id=la |access-date=September 28, 2011 |website=MLB.com |archive-date=November 9, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109232936/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110627&content_id=21076254&vkey=news_la&c_id=la |url-status=dead }} Midway through June, Kershaw had amassed 32 career victories, a 3.15 ERA and 593 career strikeouts in {{fraction|568|2|3}} innings. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Kershaw was the first 23-year-old pitcher to have that many victories, an ERA that low, and an average of more than one strikeout per inning since ERA became an official statistic in 1910.{{cite web |last=Kurkjian |first=Tim |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=kurkjian_tim&id=6640274|title=Clayton Kershaw Built To Just Be Great |work=ESPN |date=June 9, 2011|access-date=August 12, 2012}}

File:Clayton Kershaw (8664700662).jpg

Kershaw was selected to the National League team for the 2011 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, his first All-Star selection.{{cite web|last=Gurnick|first=Ken|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110703&content_id=21345478&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|title=Kemp, Kershaw picked for first All-Star Game|work=mlb.com|date=July 3, 2011|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-date=November 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109204931/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110703&content_id=21345478&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|url-status=dead}} In the month of July, Kershaw was 4–1 with a 2.02 ERA and NL-leading 45 strikeouts, earning him the National League Pitcher of the Month Award.{{cite news|last=Dilbeck|first=Steve|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dodgers/2011/08/star-bright-clayton-kershaw-named-nl-pitcher-of-the-month.html|title=Star bright: Clayton Kershaw named NL Pitcher of the Month|newspaper=LA Times|date=August 3, 2011|access-date=August 23, 2013}} On August 23, he recorded his 200th strikeout of the season and became the tenth Dodger pitcher to record back-to-back 200 strikeout seasons and the first since Chan-Ho Park did it in the 2001 season.{{cite web|last=Stephen|first=Eric|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2011/8/23/2370913/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-200-strikeouts-back-to-back-chan-ho-park|title=Clayton Kershaw: First Dodger With Back-To-Back 200-Strikeout Seasons Since 2001|publisher=Truebluela.com|date=August 23, 2011|access-date=September 28, 2011}}

Throughout the season, Kershaw pitched opposite two-time Cy Young Award winner and three-time defending NL strikeout leader Tim Lincecum of the San Francisco Giants in four particularly memorable matchups. Lincecum posted a 1.24 ERA over 29 innings in the four games but failed to record a win, as Kershaw countered with a 0.30 ERA over {{fraction|30|1|3}} innings and was the winning pitcher in each game. Each game was decided by a final score of 1–0 or 2–1, with many writers describing the matchups as reminiscent of epic pitching duels of bygone eras.{{cite web|last=Keown|first=Tim|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/7712948/tim-lincecum-wants-revenge-clayton-kershaw-espn-magazine|title=Tim Lincecum Wants Revenge on Clayton Kershaw|work=ESPN.com|date=March 27, 2012|access-date=February 27, 2018}}{{cite web|last=Weisman|first=Jon|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/7715443/clayton-kershaw-tim-lincecum-endless-pitchers-duel|title=Clayton Kershaw and Tim Lincecum and an endless pitcher's duel |work=ESPN.com |date=March 21, 2012 |access-date=February 27, 2018}}

Kershaw finished the 2011 season by leading the NL with 21 wins, 248 strikeouts, and a 2.28 ERA, winning the NL pitching Triple Crown, the first Triple Crown winner since Jake Peavy of the 2007 San Diego Padres.{{cite web|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2011_09_25_lanmlb_sdnmlb_1#gid=2011_09_25_lanmlb_sdnmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|title=Kershaw's 21 win of 2011 puts him in Triple Crown Position|work=MLB.com|date=September 25, 2011|first=Ken |last=Gurnick|access-date=September 28, 2011}} Justin Verlander of the Detroit Tigers won the American League Triple Crown the same season, marking the first major-league season since 1924 to feature Triple Crown-winning pitchers in both leagues.{{cite news |title=Triple Crown: Justin Verlander and Clayton Kershaw's Historic Seasons |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/924263-year-of-the-pitcher-justin-verlanders-and-clayton-kershaws-historic-seasons |access-date=June 24, 2024 |work=Bleacher Report |date=November 4, 2011}} Kershaw also became just the second left-hander to have 240-plus strikeouts in a season before the age of 24, joining Vida Blue.

After the season, Kershaw was awarded the Warren Spahn Award as the best left-handed pitcher in 2011,{{cite web |last=Gurnick |first=Ken |date=October 21, 2011 |title=Kershaw recognized with Warren Spahn Award |url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111021&content_id=25735976&c_id=la |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150130172653/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/25735976/ |archive-date=2015-01-30 |access-date= |work=mlb.com}} the Players Choice Award for Most Outstanding National League pitcher,{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111103&content_id=25896310&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|title=Kemp, Kershaw win Players Choice Awards|date=November 3, 2011|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|work=mlb.com|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-date=December 10, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111210203029/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111103&content_id=25896310&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|url-status=dead}} the Gold Glove Award as the top fielding pitcher in the NL{{cite news|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dodgers/2011/11/matt-kemp-andre-ethier-and-clayton-kershaw-all-golden.html|title=Dodgers' Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier and Clayton Kershaw all Golden|date=November 1, 2011|first=Steve|last=Dilbeck|newspaper=LA Times|access-date=August 23, 2013}} and the Sporting News (TSN) National League Pitcher of the Year. He was additionally selected as the starting pitcher for the TSN NL All-Star Team.{{cite web|url=http://aol.sportingnews.com/mlb/feed/2011-09/mlb-awards/story/sporting-news-2011-mlb-awards-al-and-nl-all-star-teams|title=Sporting News 2011 MLB awards: AL, NL All-Star teams|date=October 26, 2011|first=Chris|last=Bahr|publisher=SI.com|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-date=April 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402133041/http://aol.sportingnews.com/mlb/feed/2011-09/mlb-awards/story/sporting-news-2011-mlb-awards-al-and-nl-all-star-teams|url-status=dead}} On November 17, he was honored with the National League Cy Young Award, making him the youngest Cy Young winner since Dwight Gooden of the 1985 New York Mets. He was the 8th Dodger pitcher to win the award.{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111117&content_id=25991400&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|title=Kershaw is the winner of NL Cy Young Award|work=MLB.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=September 26, 2011|access-date=November 11, 2011|archive-date=November 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109232918/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20111117&content_id=25991400&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|url-status=dead}}

On February 7, 2012, Kershaw and the Dodgers agreed on a two-year, $19 million contract. The contract was the second highest for a player in his first year of arbitration (after Tim Lincecum's $23 million 2-year contract in 2010).{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/7551803/clayton-kershaw-agrees-two-year-deal-los-angeles-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers agree|first=Tony|last=Jackson|work=ESPNLA.com|date=February 8, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

Kershaw was the Dodgers' Opening Day starter for a second consecutive year, where he pitched three innings of shutout ball against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park before being removed from the game due to flu-like symptoms.{{cite web|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120405&content_id=27973742&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb|title=Flu knocks Kershaw out of Dodgers' opener|work=MLB.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=April 5, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013}} On April 27, he was able to last through eight innings for his second win of the season against the Washington Nationals. The win was also his 12th straight home win, tying him with Ed Roebuck (June 1960 – August 1962) and Orel Hershiser (September 1984 – October 1985) for the longest home winning streak since the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2012/4/27/2982817/dodgers-win-clayton-kershaw-andre-ethier|title=Kershaw, Dodgers Win Nailbiter Over Nationals, 3–2 |work=SBNation.com|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=April 5, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013}} Kershaw won the National League's Player of the Week Award for the week of May 14–20 after he made two starts during that week and pitched 16 scoreless innings, including his fourth career shutout.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2012/5/21/3034695/clayton-kershaw-national-league-player-of-the-week|title=Clayton Kershaw Wins National League Player Of The Week|date=May 21, 2012|first=Eric|last=Stephen|publisher=truebluela.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}} Kershaw was selected to appear in the 2012 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, the second straight year he made the team.{{cite web|url=http://www.mlive.com/loons/index.ssf/2012/07/clayton_kershaw_earns_spot_on.html|title=Clayton Kershaw earns spot on National League All-Star team for Los Angeles Dodgers|first=Hugh|last=Bernreuter|publisher=mlive.com|date=July 2, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

On August 11, he went over 200 innings on the season, becoming the 12th Los Angeles Dodger pitcher with three or more seasons of 200 or more innings, and the first since Hershiser did it five times from 1985 to 1989.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2012/9/11/3318864/clayton-kershaw-great-dodgers-lose-anyway|title=Clayton Kershaw Has Audacity To Allow One (Unearned) Run, Loses|first=Eric|last=Stephen|publisher=truebluela.com|date=September 11, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013}} Kershaw also became just the fifth Dodger pitcher with three straight 200 strikeout seasons.{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2012_09_04_sdnmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|title=After Kershaw exits, Dodgers can't close Padres|first=Alex|last=Angert|work=mlb.com|date=September 5, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-date=January 30, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150130172449/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2012_09_04_sdnmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|url-status=dead}}

Kershaw finished 2012 with a 14–9 record, a 2.53 ERA (leading the league), 229 strikeouts, and {{fraction|227|2|3}} innings pitched, coming second in both categories. He became the first pitcher to lead the league in ERA in consecutive seasons since Arizona's Randy Johnson in 2001–02. This also marked his fourth consecutive season with a sub-3.00 ERA, making him the first to do this since Randy Johnson from 1999 to 2002.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/mlb/recap?gameId=321003119&teams=san-francisco-giants-vs-los-angeles-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw finishes with best ERA as Dodgers beat Giants|agency=Associated Press|work=ESPN|date=October 3, 2012|access-date=August 23, 2013}} He finished second for the NL Cy Young behind R. A. Dickey, receiving two first-place votes.{{cite web|url=http://bbwaa.com/12-nl-cy/|title=R. A. Dickey Makes Knuckleball History|work=BBWAA.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

File: Clayton Kershaw (8664742364).jpg

Kershaw made his third straight opening day start for the Dodgers in the 2013 season, the first Dodger starter to do so since Derek Lowe (2005–2007). In that opening day start, he pitched a complete game, four-hit, 4–0 shutout over the Giants, having also scored the first run of the game, a solo home run which was his first and so far only home run of his career. He was the first pitcher to throw a shutout and hit a home run on opening day since Bob Lemon of the Cleveland Indians did so against the Chicago White Sox on April 14, 1953.{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=la&gid=2013_04_01_sfnmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=box#gid=2013_04_01_sfnmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|title=Kershaw dazzles with shutout, homer vs. Giants|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|work=mlb.com|date=April 1, 2013|access-date=August 23, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927233252/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=la&gid=2013_04_01_sfnmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=box#gid=2013_04_01_sfnmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|archive-date=September 27, 2013}} Kershaw picked up his 1,000th career strikeout on April 17, 2013, when he struck out Yonder Alonso of the Padres. He was the second youngest Dodger to reach that mark, behind only Fernando Valenzuela.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2013/4/17/4218928/clayton-kershaw-1000-strikeouts-dodgers|work=truebluela.com|title=Clayton Kershaw 2nd fastest Dodger to 1,000 strikeouts|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=April 17, 2013|access-date=August 23, 2013}} On May 14, Kershaw passed the 1,000 inning mark for his career. His ERA of 2.70 at the time was the fifth-best of the live-ball era at the 1,000-inning mark and the best career mark. He also threw 130 pitches that day, the most of his career and the most by a Dodger pitcher since Odalis Pérez in the 2003 season.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2013/5/15/4333576/clayton-kershaw-stats|title=Clayton Kershaw in 100-inning chunks|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=May 15, 2013|access-date=August 23, 2013}}

Kershaw was selected to the 2013 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, his third straight selection.{{cite web|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130716&content_id=53932510&c_id=la|title=Kershaw turns in perfect All-Star third inning|first=Alden|last=Gonzalez|work=mlb.com|date=July 17, 2013|access-date=August 23, 2013}} In July, he compiled a 4–1 record and 1.34 ERA in six starts and was awarded his second National League Pitcher of the Month Award.{{cite web|last=Simon|first=Andrew|date=July 3, 2013|url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130703&content_id=52580416&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|title=Puig nabs NL Player, Rookie awards for June|work=mlb.com|access-date=August 23, 2013}} On September 2, Kershaw picked up his 200th strikeout of 2013, recording his fourth consecutive season with at least 200 strikeouts.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2013/9/2/4687198/clayton-kershaw-200-strikeouts-dodgers-sandy-koufax|title=Clayton Kershaw first Dodgers pitcher since Sandy Koufax with 200 strikeouts in four straight years|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=September 2, 2013|access-date=September 2, 2013}}

Kershaw finished the season with a 16–9 record, 236 innings pitched (a career-high), and a major league-best 1.83 ERA and 0.92 WHIP.{{cite web|title=Clayton Kershaw Statistics|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kershcl01.shtml|work=Baseball-Reference|access-date=September 30, 2013}} He was the third player in history to lead the major leagues in ERA in three consecutive years, joining Greg Maddux (1993–95) and Lefty Grove (1929–31). His ERA was the first sub-2.00 ERA since Roger Clemens did it in the 2005 season and the lowest overall since Pedro Martínez in the 2000 season.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2013/9/27/4779116/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-rockies-recap|title=Dodgers 11, Rockies 0: Clayton Kershaw finishes in style|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=September 27, 2013|access-date=September 27, 2013}}

Kershaw struck out 12 batters in seven innings in the first game of the 2013 National League Division Series. His six straight strikeouts in the game tied an MLB postseason record set by Tim Belcher in the second game of the 1988 World Series. He picked up his first career postseason victory in that game.{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=la&gid=2013_10_03_lanmlb_atlmlb_1&lang=en&mode=wrap#gid=2013_10_03_lanmlb_atlmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|title=Dodgers ace Game 1 behind Kershaw's 12 K's|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|work=Los Angeles Times|date=October 3, 2013|access-date=October 3, 2013|archive-date=October 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019041800/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=la&gid=2013_10_03_lanmlb_atlmlb_1&lang=en&mode=wrap#gid=2013_10_03_lanmlb_atlmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|url-status=dead}}

Kershaw won the Warren Spahn Award for 2013, the second time he had won the award, which honors the best left-handed pitcher in the MLB.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2013/10/11/4823282/clayton-kershaw-2013-warren-spahn-award-dogers|title=Clayton Kershaw wins 2013 Warren Spahn Award|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=October 11, 2013|access-date=October 11, 2013}} On November 13, he won the NL Cy Young Award for the second time in three seasons. He became just the sixth pitcher in history to finish in the top two in voting in three consecutive seasons.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2013/11/13/5101402/clayton-kershaw-cy-young-award-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw wins 2013 NL Cy Young Award|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=November 13, 2013|access-date=November 13, 2013}}

After the season, Kershaw and the Dodgers agreed on a seven-year, $215 million, contract extension. The deal was the richest in MLB history for a pitcher, eclipsing the seven-year, $180 million, contract signed by Justin Verlander the previous year.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/10298436/clayton-kershaw-los-angeles-dodgers-agree-seven-year-deal-worth-215-million|title=Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw have deal|first=Ramona|last=Shelburne|date=January 15, 2014|access-date=January 15, 2014|work=ESPN.com}} The average annual value of $30.7 million was also the largest ever for a baseball player, beating the $28 million Roger Clemens received in 2007 and the 10-year, $275 million contract that Alex Rodriguez signed that same year.{{cite web|url=http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2014/01/dodgers-to-extend-clayton-kershaw.html|title=Dodgers To Extend Clayton Kershaw|first=Jeff|last=Todd|work=MLBTraderumors|date=January 15, 2014|access-date=January 15, 2014}}

Kershaw made his fourth straight opening day start for the Dodgers in 2014, only the fourth Dodger ever to do so. This season the game was played at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Australia.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2014/3/21/5534410/clayton-kershaw-opening-day-dodgers-diamondbacks|title=Clayton Kershaw puts Opening Day streak on the line|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=March 21, 2014|access-date=March 21, 2014}} Before his second start, Kershaw felt some pain in his back and was placed on the disabled list for the first time in his career.{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/big-league-stew/dodgers-place-clayton-kershaw-disabled-list-back-injury-000135884--mlb.html|title=Dodgers place Clayton Kershaw on disabled list after back injury flares up|first=Mark|last=Townsend|date=March 29, 2014|work=Yahoo! Sports|access-date=June 7, 2014}} He rejoined the Dodgers until early May.{{cite news|url=http://seattletimes.com/html/mariners/2023546084_baseballnotes07xml.html|title=Clayton Kershaw throws seven shutout innings in return|agency=Associated Press|date=May 6, 2014|work=The Seattle Times|access-date=June 7, 2014}} On June 18, he pitched a complete game no-hitter against the Colorado Rockies and struck out a career-high 15 batters. The only batter to reach base was due to an error by Hanley Ramírez in the top of the seventh inning. He is one of two pitchers in MLB history, along with Max Scherzer, with 15 strikeouts in a game while allowing no hits and no walks.{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=la&gid=2014_06_18_colmlb_lanmlb_1&lang=en#gid=2014_06_18_colmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|title=Kershaw tosses first no-no as Dodgers rout Rockies|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=June 18, 2014|access-date=June 18, 2014|work=mlb.com|archive-date=October 8, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141008183638/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?c_id=la&gid=2014_06_18_colmlb_lanmlb_1&lang=en#gid=2014_06_18_colmlb_lanmlb_1&mode=recap&c_id=la|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/statsinfo/post/_/id/91774/top-10-facts-on-kershaws-no-hitter|title=Top Ten Facts on Kershaw's no-hitter|date=June 19, 2014|access-date=June 19, 2014|publisher=ESPN}} Kershaw was 6–0 with an 0.82 ERA in June and was awarded his third career Pitcher of the Month award.{{cite web|last=Stephen|first=Eric|date=July 2, 2014|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2014/7/2/5865549/clayton-kershaw-pitcher-of-the-month-june|title=Clayton Kershaw named NL Pitcher of the Month for June|work=truebluela.com|access-date=July 2, 2014}} He was selected to the National League squad at the 2014 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, his fourth straight selection.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2014/7/6/5873401/clayton-kershaw-yasiel-puig-zack-greinke-dee-gordon-dodgers-2014-all-star-game|title=Clayton Kershaw, Yasiel Puig lead 4 Dodgers named to All-Star team|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela.com|date=July 6, 2014|access-date=July 6, 2014}}

Kershaw recorded a scoreless innings streak of 41 innings which started on June 13 and ended in the top of the sixth inning on July 10 when, with two outs, Chase Headley homered to left field at Dodger Stadium. At the time, the 41-inning streak was tied for the fifteenth-longest scoreless inning streak in MLB history.{{cite web |title=Consecutive Scoreless Innings Pitched Records |url=https://www.baseball-almanac.com/recbooks/consecutive_scoreless_innings_pitched.shtml |website=Baseball Almanac |access-date=October 28, 2024}} He won the pitcher of the month award again in July, the third Dodger (along with Don Sutton and Burt Hooton) to win it in two consecutive months. He was 4–0 with a 1.10 ERA in the month with 48 strikeouts and only 10 walks.{{cite web|last=Stephen|first=Eric|date=August 4, 2014|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2014/8/4/5966305/clayton-kershaw-pitcher-of-the-month-national-league-july|title=Clayton Kershaw wins NL Pitcher of the Month for July|work=truebluela.com|access-date=August 4, 2014}} He picked up his 200th strikeout of the season on September 2, the fifth consecutive year he had reached that number.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2014/9/2/6100343/clayton-kershaw-200-strikeouts-5-straight-years-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw reaches 200 strikeouts for 5th straight year|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=September 2, 2014|access-date=September 2, 2014|work=truebluela.com}} He also became just the fourth pitcher since 1893 to have at least five 200-strikeout seasons through an age-26 season (Bert Blyleven, Walter Johnson and Sam McDowell are the others).{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/92881840/mlb-notebook-clayton-kershaw-king-of-the-hill|title=MLB Notebook: Kershaw king of the hill|first=Roger|last=Schlueter|work=mlb.com|date=September 3, 2014|access-date=September 3, 2014|archive-date=January 30, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150130172625/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/92881840/mlb-notebook-clayton-kershaw-king-of-the-hill|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/sports/wp/2014/09/16/clayton-kershaw-makes-nl-cy-young-race-non-existent/|title=Clayton Kershaw makes NL Cy Young race non-existent|first=Barry|last=Svrluga|work=mlb.com|date=September 16, 2014|access-date=September 16, 2014}}

Kershaw finished the season 21–3 with a 1.77 ERA in 27 starts. He led the National League in numerous categories once again, such as ERA, ERA+, Wins, Win %, WHIP, IP/GS, SO/9, Strikeout-to-walk ratio, complete games, FIP, and Wins Above Replacement for both pitchers and all NL players. He also finished third in strikeouts despite missing most of the first month of the season. He was the first pitcher in history to win four consecutive Major League-leading ERA titles.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/96849166/after-sim-game-clayton-kershaw-on-pace-for-dodgers-nlds-opener|title=After sim game, Kershaw on pace for NLDS opener|work=mlb.com|first=Ken and Michael Lannana|last=Gurnick|date=September 28, 2014|access-date=September 29, 2014|archive-date=November 22, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122172903/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/96849166/after-sim-game-clayton-kershaw-on-pace-for-dodgers-nlds-opener|url-status=dead}}

However, in his first start of the playoffs, in Game 1 of the Division Series against the Cardinals, Kershaw became the first pitcher in history to strike out 10 while allowing eight runs. Allowing only two hits in the first six innings, both solo home runs, he surrendered six runs in the seventh. He was also the first pitcher in history to give up at least seven runs in back-to-back postseason starts (his previous one was Game 6 of the 2013 National League Championship Series).{{Cite web |last=Stephen |first=Eric |date=2014-10-03 |title=Cards stretch Kershaw past his limit |url=https://www.truebluela.com/2014/10/3/6905813/matt-carpenter-clayton-kershaw-dodgers-cardinals-game-1-recap |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=True Blue LA |language=en}} Pitching on short rest in Game 4, he pitched well but lost after giving up a 3-run home run to Matt Adams in the 7th inning. It was the first home run Kershaw had allowed in his career to a left-handed batter off his curveball.{{cite web|last1=Schoenfield|first1=David|title=How long should a starter stay in?|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/sweetspot|website=SweetSpot Blog -ESPN|access-date=October 9, 2014}}

Kershaw was honored after the season with the player of the year awards from both The Sporting News and Baseball America. He won three awards at the Players Choice Awards including Outstanding NL Pitcher, Player of the Year and the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award. He also won his third (and second straight) Warren Spahn Award. On November 12, he was awarded his third Cy Young Award in four seasons (a unanimous vote).{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2014/11/12/7206369/clayton-kershaw-cy-young-award-national-league-2014-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw wins 3rd NL Cy Young Award|work=truebluela.com|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=November 12, 2014|access-date=November 12, 2014}} The following day, he was elected as the NL MVP, the first National League pitcher to win the award since Bob Gibson in 1968 and the first Dodgers player to win the award since Kirk Gibson in 1988.

File:Clayton Kershaw on May 20, 2015.jpg

Kershaw made his fifth consecutive opening day start in 2015, the first Dodgers pitcher to do so since Hall of Famer Don Sutton had seven consecutive from 1972 through 1978.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/115885666/dodgers-ace-clayton-kershaw-raises-the-bar-expectations-for-opening-day|title=Kershaw raises the bar, expectations for opener|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|work=mlb.com|date=April 2, 2015|access-date=April 6, 2015|archive-date=April 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401142707/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/115885666/dodgers-ace-clayton-kershaw-raises-the-bar-expectations-for-opening-day|url-status=dead}} He recorded his 1,500th career strikeout on May 10 when he fanned Drew Stubbs of the Colorado Rockies.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2015/05/10/felix-hernandez-clayton-kershaw-strikeout-milestones|title=Felix Hernandez, Clayton Kershaw pass strikeout milestones|magazine=Sports Illustrated|date=May 10, 2015|access-date=May 10, 2015}} Kershaw picked up his 100th career win on May 15 against the Rockies. He became the 22nd pitcher in franchise history, and the second-youngest active pitcher, to reach that mark.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2015/5/15/8509733/clayton-kershaw-100-wins-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw joins 100-win club|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=May 15, 2015|access-date=May 16, 2015}} Kershaw won his sixth career NL Player of the Week award for the week of June 1–7, 2015, when he allowed only two runs on 10 baserunners in 15 innings while striking out 18 in two starts.

Kershaw did not make the initial NL roster for the 2015 All-Star Game, though he was included on the Final Vote ballot, which he lost to Cardinals pitcher Carlos Martinez. However, he was added to the roster to replace Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer, who was unavailable due to pitching the Sunday before the game.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2015/7/12/8937099/clayton-kershaw-all-star-game-replacement-max-scherzer|title=Clayton Kershaw named to All-Star team as replacement for Max Scherzer|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=SB Nation|date=July 12, 2015|access-date=July 12, 2015}}

Kershaw struck out a season-high 14 batters in eight shutout innings on July 18 against the Washington Nationals. He became the first Dodgers starter with back-to-back games of at least 13 strikeouts since Chan Ho Park in 2000, and the first Dodgers pitcher with back-to-back games of double-digit strikeouts and no walks since Dazzy Vance in 1930.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2015/7/18/8998909/clayton-kershaw-14-strikeouts-dodgers-nationals-recap|title=Clayton Kershaw dominant in 14-strikeout win over Nationals|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=July 18, 2015|access-date=July 18, 2015}} He shared the NL Player of the Week honors with his teammate Zack Greinke for the week of July 13–19{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2015/7/20/9006211/clayton-kershaw-zack-greinke-player-of-the-week-national-league-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw, Zack Greinke share NL Player of the Week honors|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=July 20, 2015|access-date=July 20, 2015}} and won NL Pitcher of the Month for July.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/140926630|title=Kershaw nets NL Pitcher of Month nod for masterful July|first=Jamal|last=Collier|work=mlb.com|date=August 3, 2015|access-date=August 3, 2015|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304121644/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/140926630|url-status=dead}}

Kershaw picked up his 200th strikeout of the season on August 12, tying Hideo Nomo's 1995 season for the fastest to that mark in Dodgers history at 156 innings; it was also his sixth straight 200-strikeout season.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2015/8/12/9146275/clayton-kershaw-200-strikeouts-six-straight-dodgers|title=Clayton Kershaw reaches 200 strikeouts for 6th straight season|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=August 12, 2015|access-date=August 12, 2015}} On October 4, Kershaw became the 11th player in MLB history to strike out 300 batters in a season, and the first player to do so since Randy Johnson did it in 2002.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/losangeles/mlb/story/_/id/13808424/clayton-kershaw-losangeles-dodgers-reaches-300-strikeouts|title=Clayton Kershaw finishes the regular season with 301 strikeouts|work=ESPN|first=Mark|last=Saxon|date=October 4, 2015|access-date=October 5, 2015}} He finished the season with a 16–7 record, a 2.13 ERA, and 301 strikeouts in {{fraction|232|2|3}} innings.

In Game One of the 2015 National League Division Series, Kershaw struck out 11 in {{fraction|6|2|3}} innings but allowed three runs for his fifth straight postseason loss. He and New York Mets starter Jacob deGrom were the first pair of starters to each throw at least 11 strikeouts in the same postseason game in MLB history.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/153895908/jacob-degrom-mets-defeat-dodgers-in-game-1|title=Kershaw fans 11 but LA falls short in Game 1|work=mlb.com|first=Anthony and Ken Gurnick|last=DiComo|date=October 10, 2015|access-date=October 10, 2015|archive-date=October 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171009195104/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/153895908/jacob-degrom-mets-defeat-dodgers-in-game-1/|url-status=dead}} He rebounded in game four, earning the win on three days' rest by allowing one run and three hits against eight strikeouts in seven innings on October 13.{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=351013121|title=Clayton Kershaw tosses 7 innings on short rest as Dodgers force Game 5|work=ESPN|date=October 13, 2015|agency=Associated Press|access-date=October 14, 2015}} Kershaw finished third in the National League Cy Young Award voting, placing behind teammate Zack Greinke and eventual winner Jake Arrieta.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/awards/awards_2015.shtml#NLcya|title=Baseball Awards Voting for 2015|website=Baseball Reference|access-date=December 7, 2015}}

File:2016-10-22 Clayton Kershaw 1 (cropped).jpg against the Chicago Cubs]]

Kershaw made his sixth straight opening day start in 2016 as the Dodgers won 15–0. It also marked the first time the Dodgers had won six straight opening-day games, all of which he started.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2016/4/4/11365838/clayton-kershaw-run-support-opening-day-dodgers-padres|title=Clayton Kershaw doesn't need run support, gets it anyway in 15–0 blowout opener|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=April 4, 2016|access-date=April 4, 2016}} On May 12 against the New York Mets, he struck out 13 while pitching a three-hit complete-game shutout.

He set an MLB record with six consecutive starts with at least 10 strikeouts and no more than one walk and a club record with six consecutive starts with at least 10 strikeouts.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/177766310/dodgers-beat-mets-on-kershaws-13-k-shutout|title=Kershaw mows down Mets with 13-K shutout|work=mlb.com|first=Jack and Ken Gurnick|last=Baer|date=May 13, 2016|access-date=May 12, 2016|archive-date=May 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514111550/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/177766310/dodgers-beat-mets-on-kershaws-13-k-shutout|url-status=dead}} He picked up his 100th strikeout on May 29, while only walking five batters within that period. That was the lowest walk total for a pitcher reaching 100 strikeouts in the modern era, beating Cliff Lee who had seven walks in the 2010 season.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/181016826/adrian-gonzalez-leads-dodgers-to-win-over-mets|title=No win for Kershaw, but A-Gone rescues LA in 9th|work=mlb.com|first=Ken and Troy Provost-Heron|last=Gurnick|date=May 30, 2016|access-date=May 30, 2016|archive-date=May 31, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160531114049/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/181016826/adrian-gonzalez-leads-dodgers-to-win-over-mets|url-status=dead}} On June 30, 2016, Kershaw was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to back pain. He received an MRI, which revealed that there was a mild herniated disc in the back, and received an epidural injection to treat the pain.{{cite web|last1=Gurnick|first1=Ken|title=Kershaw heads to DL with back issue|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-heads-to-dl-with-back-issue-c187107104|publisher=MLB|access-date=June 30, 2016|archive-date=August 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817002704/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/187107104/clayton-kershaw-heads-to-dl-with-back-issue/|url-status=live}}

He was named to the 2016 All-Star team but was unable to pitch in the game due to his injury. On July 20, the Dodgers shut down Kershaw for an indefinite period. He continued to feel discomfort in his back after a simulated game.{{cite web|last1=Padilla|first1=Doug|title=Kershaw shut down due to back problems|date=July 19, 2016|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/17108426/clayton-kershaw-los-angeles-dodgers-shut-due-continuing-back-pain|publisher=ESPN|access-date=July 20, 2016}} On August 3, Kershaw was transferred to the 60-day disabled list.{{cite web|last1=Flanagan|first1=Keely|title=Clayton Kershaw Hits 60-Day Disabled List; Red Sox Avoid Facing Dodgers' Ace|url=http://nesn.com/2016/08/clayton-kershaw-hits-60-day-disabled-list-red-sox-avoid-facing-dodgers-ace/|website=NESN.com|access-date=August 3, 2016}} He rejoined the Dodger rotation on September 9.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/200443854/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-returns-from-dl/|title=Rusty Kershaw eased back with 3-inning start|work=mlb.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=September 9, 2016|access-date=September 10, 2016|archive-date=September 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913050901/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/200443854/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-returns-from-dl/|url-status=dead}}

He started 21 games in 2016, with a 12–4 record and a 1.69 ERA. He also struck out 172 batters with 11 walks in 149 innings pitched.

Kershaw started games one and four of the 2016 National League Division Series and picked up the save in the clinching game five. It was his first professional save since he was with the Gulf Coast Dodgers in his first minor league season in 2006.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/dodgers-beat-nationals-in-nlds-to-go-to-nlcs-c206007428|title=NCapital gain: LA wins in DC, advances to NLCS|work=MLB.com|first=Jamal and Ken Gurnick|last=Collier|date=October 14, 2016|access-date=October 14, 2016|archive-date=October 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018203842/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/206007428/dodgers-beat-nationals-in-nlds-to-go-to-nlcs/?game_pk=487616|url-status=live}} He next pitched seven shutout innings, allowing only two hits, in Game two of the 2016 National League Championship Series against the Chicago Cubs.{{cite web|url=http://m.mlb.com/news/article/20161017206283082/dodgers-beat-cubs-in-game-2-to-even-nlcs/?game_pk=487625|title=Clayt Show! LA drops Cubs, ties NLCS|work=mlb.com|first=Ken and Carrie Muskat|last=Gurnick|date=October 17, 2016|access-date=October 17, 2016|archive-date=October 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018203530/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/20161017206283082/dodgers-beat-cubs-in-game-2-to-even-nlcs/?game_pk=487625|url-status=dead}} He struggled in Game Six, allowing five runs in five innings to pick up the loss as the Dodgers were eliminated from post-season contention.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CHN/CHN201610220.shtml|title=2016 National League Championship Game Six, Los Angeles Dodgers at Chicago Cubs|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=October 23, 2016}}

Kershaw made his seventh straight Opening Day start, tying Don Sutton for most consecutive Opening Day starts, and Sutton and Don Drysdale for most total opening day starts by a Dodger.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2017/4/3/15079626/clayton-kershaw-opening-day-history|title=Clayton Kershaw has a stellar opening day history|work=SB Nation|date=April 3, 2017|access-date=April 3, 2017|first=Eric|last=Stephen}} On June 2, he struck out Jonathan Villar of the Milwaukee Brewers for his 2,000th career strikeout. He was the fifth-youngest player in major league history to reach that mark, as well as the second-fastest pitcher to 2,000 strikeouts, accomplishing the feat in 277 games (behind Randy Johnson's 262 games).{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2017/6/2/15733624/clayton-kershaw-2000-strikeouts-5th-youngest-mlb-history-bert-blyleven|title=Clayton Kershaw is 5th-youngest to reach 2,000 strikeouts; as well as the second fastest pitcher to 2,000 strikeouts (behind Randy Johnson).|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=June 2, 2017|access-date=June 2, 2017|work=SB Nation}}{{Cite web |last=Doolittle |first=Bradford |date=2017-06-03 |title=2K Kershaw: Dodgers ace gets strikeout mark |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/19524123/los-angeles-dodgers-clayton-kershaw-gets-2000th-career-strikeout |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}} He was named to his seventh straight All-Star Game.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/all-star-game/2017/7/2/15908678/all-star-game-rosters-2017-dodgers-clayton-kershaw-corey-seager-cody-bellinger-kenley-jansen|title=All-Star Game rosters 2017: Dodgers send 4 players to Miami|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=July 2, 2017|access-date=July 2, 2017}} On July 23, Kershaw left the game due to back tightness. The same day, he was placed on the 10-day disabled list.{{cite web|last1=Gurnick|first1=Ken|title=Clayton Kershaw (tight back) heads to DL; no timetable|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-leaves-game-with-injury-c243977966|publisher=MLB|access-date=July 23, 2017}} He returned to the mound on September 1,{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=370901125|title=Clayton Kershaw strong in return, Dodgers snap skid with 1–0 win|access-date=October 17, 2017|date=September 2, 2017|agency=Associated Press|publisher=ESPN}} but despite his extended absence, he went on to lead the National League in earned run average and wins.

In 27 starts, he was 18–4 with a 2.31 ERA and 202 strikeouts. He led all major league pitchers in left on base percentage, stranding 87.4% of base runners.[https://www.fangraphs.com/leaders.aspx?pos=all&stats=pit&lg=all&qual=y&type=8&season=2017&month=0&season1=2017&ind=0&team=0&rost=0&age=0&filter=&players=0&sort=13,d Major League Leaderboards » 2017 » Pitchers » Dashboard | FanGraphs Baseball] He also led all major league pitchers in first-strike percentage (69.4%).[https://www.fangraphs.com/leaders.aspx?pos=all&stats=pit&lg=all&qual=y&type=5&season=2017&month=0&season1=2017&ind=0&team=0&rost=0&age=0&filter=&players=0&sort=10,d Major League Leaderboards » 2017 » Pitchers » Plate Discipline Statistics | FanGraphs Baseball]

In the opener of the 2017 NLDS against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he allowed four solo home runs in {{fraction|6|1|3}} innings but still picked up the win.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN201710060.shtml|title=2017 National League Division Series (NLDS) Game 1, Diamondbacks at Dodgers, October 6|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=October 25, 2017}} The four home runs were tied for the most allowed in a postseason game.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2017/10/7/16440482/clayton-kershaw-home-runs-mlb-record-dodgers-diamondbacks-nlds-game-1|title=Clayton Kershaw allows record-tying 4 home runs in Game 1 win|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=October 7, 2017|access-date=October 25, 2017|work=SB Nation}} He made two starts in the 2017 NLCS against the Chicago Cubs, both Dodgers wins, including the clinching game five. He allowed three runs in 11 innings in the two games with nine strikeouts and only two walks.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2017_NLCS.shtml|title=2017 NLCS Los Angeles Dodgers over Chicago Cubs (4–1)|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=October 25, 2017}} Kershaw started the opening game of the 2017 World Series for the Dodgers against the Houston Astros. He struck out 11 batters in the game without walking anyone and only allowed one run (a solo homer) on three hits to pick up the win.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/259587014/dodgers-homers-back-clayton-kershaw-in-game-1/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171025070020/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/259587014/dodgers-homers-back-clayton-kershaw-in-game-1/|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 25, 2017|title=Red hot! Turner HR backs Kershaw Gm. 1 gem|work=mlb.com|last=Gurnick|first=Ken and Brian McTaggart|date=October 25, 2017|access-date=October 25, 2017}} His 11 strikeouts were the third most ever by a Dodgers pitcher in a World Series game, after Sandy Koufax (15 in 1963) and Carl Erskine (14 in 1953).{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2017/10/24/16539964/clayton-kershaw-strikeouts-brilliant-dodgers-world-series-game-1|title=Clayton Kershaw brilliant as Dodgers take Game 1 of the World Series|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=October 24, 2017|access-date=October 25, 2017}} He made another start in the fifth game of the series, but he did not pitch as well this time, allowing six runs on four hits in {{fraction|4|2|3}} innings.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/astros-beat-dodgers-in-a-game-5-for-the-ages-c260033600|title=Can't make this up! Astros earn insane W|work=mlb.com|last=McTaggart|first=Brian and Ken Gurnick|date=October 30, 2017|access-date=October 30, 2017|archive-date=October 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171030220518/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/260033600/astros-beat-dodgers-in-wild-game-5-go-up-3-2/?game_pk=526515|url-status=live}} Notably, he threw 39 sliders and generated only one swing and miss all game.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2020/02/20/astros-cheating-scandal-clayton-kershaw|title=Astros' Cheating Haunts Clayton Kershaw's Memory of 2017 World Series|magazine=Sports Illustrated|first=Tom|last=Verducci|date=February 20, 2020}} Although he received criticism after this start for his continued postseason struggles, the later revelation of the Houston Astros sign stealing scandal as a possible factor has complicated assessments of his performance in this game.{{cite web|url=https://www.theringer.com/mlb/2020/3/9/21170990/astros-sign-stealing-dodgers-world-series-yu-darvish-clayton-kershaw|title=Has the Astros Scandal Changed How We Think of Yu Darvish and Clayton Kershaw?|work=The Ringer|first=Daniel|last=Chin|date=March 9, 2020}} He came back in game seven to pitch four scoreless innings of relief in the game, and in the process, he broke Orel Hershiser's Dodgers post-season record with his 33rd strikeout. However, the Dodgers lost the game and the series.{{cite news|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2017/11/1/16568418/clayton-kershaw-postseason-strikeout-record-dodgers-world-series|title=Clayton Kershaw sets Dodgers postseason strikeout record|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=November 1, 2017|access-date=November 1, 2017}}

Kershaw was selected as a starting pitcher on Baseball America's All-MLB Team{{cite news |author=Baseball America Press Release |url=http://www.baseballamerica.com/majors/afterthought-foundation-winner/#cGRtl3TBYItVZXDT.97 |title=From afterthought to foundation of a winner |work=Baseball America |date=October 5, 2017 |access-date=October 28, 2017}} and finished second in the NL Cy Young Award voting.{{cite web|url=https://bbwaa.com/17-nl-cy/|title=Back-to-back: Nationals' Max Scherzer wins 2nd consecutive Cy Young, 3rd overall|work=bbwaa.com|date=November 15, 2017|access-date=November 15, 2017}}

Kershaw made his team-record eighth opening-day start in 2018. He allowed only one run in six innings with seven strikeouts against the Giants but still lost the game 1–0. It was his first opening-day loss.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-takes-opener-loss/c-270103646|title=Kershaw's one lapse too much in opener loss|work=mlb.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=March 29, 2018|access-date=March 29, 2018}} On May 6, Kershaw was placed on the disabled list due to left biceps tendinitis.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2018/5/6/17324592/clayton-kershaw-disabled-biceps-tendonitis|title=Clayton Kershaw placed on disabled list with biceps tendonitis|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=May 6, 2018|work=SB Nation|access-date=May 6, 2018}} He returned to the team for one start on May 31, during which he experienced a recurrence of his chronic back pain and was put back on the disabled list.{{cite web | last=Gurnick | first=Ken | title=Clayton Kershaw goes on DL with back injury | website=MLB.com | date=2018-06-01 | url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-goes-on-dl-with-back-injury-c279338624 | access-date=2024-11-01}} He rejoined the roster on June 23.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/matt-kemp-delivers-pinch-hit-grand-slam-in-win/c-282638228|title=Kemp's grand slam seals win in Kershaw's return|work=mlb.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=June 24, 2018|access-date=June 24, 2018}} He had a record of 9–5 with a 2.73 ERA and 155 strikeouts in 2018, his lowest win total and highest ERA since 2010 and fewest strikeouts since his rookie season.

In a surprising move, Dave Roberts chose Hyun-jin Ryu to pitch the Dodgers' first playoff game of the 2018 NLDS against the Atlanta Braves. It was the first time since 2009 that Kershaw had not started the first game of the playoffs for the Dodgers.{{cite web|url=https://www.ocregister.com/2018/10/03/dodgers-say-extra-rest-led-to-choice-of-hyun-jin-ryu-over-clayton-kershaw-for-nlds-opener/|title=Dodgers say 'extra rest' led to the choice of Hyun-Jin Ryu over Clayton Kershaw for NLDS opener|work=Orange County Register|first=Bill|last=Plunkett|date=October 3, 2018|access-date=November 2, 2018}} He started the second game of the series and pitched eight scoreless innings while allowing only two hits.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-leads-dodgers-game-2-shutout/c-297224424|title=Kershaw makes a statement as LA goes up 2-0|work=MLB.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=October 5, 2018|access-date=October 5, 2018}} He then started the opener of the 2018 NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers, but turned in the shortest postseason start of his career, replaced with no outs in the fourth inning after allowing five runs on six hits and two walks.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brewers-hold-off-dodgers-for-12th-straight-win/c-297724862|title=Crew holds off LA in G1 for 12th straight victory|work=mlb.com|first=Adam|last=McCalvy|date=October 12, 2018|access-date=October 12, 2018}} He had better results in Game 5, pitching seven innings and allowing one run on three hits and two walks while striking out nine. He also walked twice as a batter, becoming just the third pitcher in the last 20 years to do so in a postseason game (after Jon Lester in the 2016 NLCS and Derek Lowe in the 2008 NLDS).{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/play-index/tiny.fcgi?id=ZVo9O|title=Batting Game Finder|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=October 17, 2018}}

Kershaw made two starts for the Dodgers in the 2018 World Series against the Boston Red Sox. In Game 1 he pitched four innings and gave up five runs in an 8–4 loss,{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/eduardo-nunez-red-sox-win-world-series-game-1/c-299550424|title=Hot Red Sox bats chill Dodgers in Game 1|work=mlb.com|first=Anthony|last=Castrovince|date=October 23, 2018|access-date=October 23, 2018}} and in Game 5 he pitched seven innings and allowed four runs, including three home runs as the Red Sox won the Series 4–1; it was the Dodgers' second straight World Series defeat.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/red-sox-win-2018-world-series-title/c-299876586|title=Red Sox roll to 4th World Series title since 2004|work=MLB.com|first=Anthony|last=Castrovince|date=October 28, 2018|access-date=October 28, 2018}}

Kershaw's contract allowed him to opt out and become a free agent after the 2018 season, but on November 2 he and the team agreed to a new three-year, $93 million contract. This extended his previous contract by one year and $28 million.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2018/11/2/18056718/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-new-contract-extension|title=Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw reach agreement on new three-year deal|first=Ryan|last=Walton|work=SB Nation|date=November 2, 2018|access-date=November 2, 2018}}

Kershaw experienced left shoulder inflammation early in spring training, causing him to be shut down and he did not begin throwing in spring until late. As a result, the Dodgers chose to place him on the injured list to begin the season, ending his Dodgers record streak of eight straight opening-day starts.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-throws-simulated-inning|title=Kershaw begins ST anew with simulated inning|work=MLB.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=March 20, 2019|access-date=March 20, 2019}} He was selected to the 2019 MLB All-Star Game, his eighth all-star appearance.{{cite web|url=https://dodgers.mlblogs.com/ryu-buehler-kershaw-join-bellinger-on-2019-nl-all-star-team-da68db148002|title=Ryu, Buehler, Kershaw join Bellinger on 2019 NL All-Star Team|work=mlb.com|first=Rowan|last=Kavner|date=June 30, 2019|access-date=June 30, 2019}}

On August 14, Kershaw picked up his 165th career win on against the Miami Marlins, tying Koufax for the most ever by a Dodger left-handed pitcher. He also struck out the first seven batters in the game, breaking a Dodger record previously held by Andy Messersmith (1973) and one short of the major league record.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-10-strikeouts-ties-sandy-koufax-wins?game_pk=567421|title=Kershaw ties Koufax with a dominant win vs. Marlins|work=mlb.com|first=Christina|last=De Nicola|date=August 14, 2019|access-date=August 14, 2019}} Kershaw picked up his 166th career win on August 20 against the Toronto Blue Jays, passing Koufax for the most wins ever by a Dodger left-handed pitcher. That game also marked only the sixth time in his career that Kershaw gave up two home runs in the same game to the same batter, Bo Bichette, and only the first time Kershaw did so to a rookie.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-passes-sandy-koufax-in-wins?game_pk=565863|title=Kershaw passes Koufax in wins as LA bats erupt |work=mlb.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=August 21, 2019|access-date=August 21, 2019}}{{Cite web |last=Zuber |first=Andrew |date=August 21, 2019 |title=Blue Jays' Bo Bichette launches pair of home runs off Clayton Kershaw |url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/blue-jays-bo-bichette-launches-pair-of-home-runs-off-clayton-kershaw-044242385.html |access-date=2021-08-01 |website=Yahoo Sports}}

Kershaw finished the 2019 regular season with a record of 16–5 with a 3.03 ERA with 189 strikeouts. On offense, he led the major leagues with 15 sacrifice hits.{{Cite web |title=2019 Major League Baseball Batting Leaders |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/majors/2019-batting-leaders.shtml |access-date=2021-07-25 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}

In the National League Division Series against the Washington Nationals, Kershaw started Game 2 and entered Game 5 in relief. In Game 2, Kershaw pitched six innings and allowed three runs in a 4–2 loss.{{Cite web |title=2019 National League Division Series (NLDS) Game 2, Washington Nationals vs Los Angeles Dodgers: October 4, 2019 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN201910040.shtml |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}} In Game 5, he entered the game in relief of Walker Buehler with two outs in the seventh inning and struck out Adam Eaton. In the eighth inning, Kershaw allowed home runs on back-to-back pitches to Anthony Rendon and Juan Soto to surrender a 3–1 lead, and the Nationals won the game and the series.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-gives-up-two-homers-in-game-5|title=Kershaw falters as bullpen plan goes awry|work=mlb.com|first=Adam|last=McCalvy|date=October 10, 2019|access-date=October 10, 2019}}

Kershaw was scheduled to start on opening day in the season shorted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but he hurt his back in the weight room and was placed on the injured list to start the season. Instead, rookie Dustin May got his first Opening Day nod.{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2020-07-23/back-injury-forces-clayton-kershaw-miss-opening-day-start-dustin-may-gets-nod|title=Back injury forces Clayton Kershaw to miss opening day start; Dustin May gets the nod|work=Los Angeles Times|first=Jorge|last=Castillo|date=July 23, 2020|access-date=July 23, 2020}} On August 20, he passed Don Drysdale for the second-most strikeouts in franchise history.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-passes-drysdale-on-strikeout-list|title=New No. 2: Classic Kershaw bests Drysdale|work=MLB.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=August 21, 2020|access-date=August 21, 2020}} Kershaw started 10 games for the Dodgers in 2020, with a 6–2 record, 2.16 ERA and 62 strikeouts. He started the second game of the wild card series against the Milwaukee Brewers and threw eight scoreless innings while only allowing three hits and striking out 13.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN202010010.shtml|title=2020 National League Wild Card Series (NLWC) Game 2, Brewers at Dodgers, October 1|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=October 21, 2020}} In the NLDS against the San Diego Padres, he also started the second game and allowed three runs in six innings while striking out six.{{cite web|url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/LAN/LAN202010070.shtml|title=2020 National League Division Series (NLDS) Game 2, Padres at Dodgers, October 7|work=Baseball Reference|access-date=October 21, 2020}} Kershaw was scratched from his scheduled Game 2 start in the NLCS against the Atlanta Braves because of back spasms{{cite web | title=Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw scratched from Game 2 start in NLCS | website=AP News | date=2020-10-13 | url=https://apnews.com/article/mlb-los-angeles-atlanta-braves-los-angeles-dodgers-clayton-kershaw-43aaccb77990eefa4e9b0d6f716173d9 | access-date=2024-11-01}} and started Game 4 instead, where he allowed four runs in five innings for his first loss of the 2020 postseason.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2020/10/15/21518720/dodgers-failures-pick-your-poison-offense-bullpen-clayton-kershaw-dave-roberts|title=The Dodgers managed to check off every October failure in Game 4 of the NLCS|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=SB Nation|date=October 15, 2020|access-date=October 21, 2020}} He started the first game of the 2020 World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays, tying Greg Maddux for second place all-time with 11 Game 1 starts in the postseason.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2020/10/20/21524502/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-game-1-preview-world-series-preview-rays|title=Clayton Kershaw gets things started in the World Series, again|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=October 20, 2020|access-date=October 21, 2020}} He allowed only one run in six innings in the game while striking out eight, in the process passing John Smoltz for second place all-time in postseason strikeouts with 201.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-postseason-strikeouts-record|title=Kershaw moves into 2nd for postseason K's|work=mlb.com|first=Adam|last=McCalby|date=October 20, 2020|access-date=October 21, 2020}} Kershaw started again in Game 5, pitching {{fraction|5|2|3}} innings, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks. He struck out six in the game to pass Justin Verlander for the most strikeouts in postseason history (207).{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/30193766/los-angeles-dodgers-clayton-kershaw-passes-justin-verlander-postseason-strikeout-mark|title=Los Angeles Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw passes Justin Verlander for postseason strikeout mark|work=ESPN.com|first=Alden|last=Gonzalez|date=October 25, 2020|access-date=October 27, 2020}} The Dodgers went on to defeat the Rays in six games to win their first World Series championship since {{wsy|1988}}. After the season, Kershaw was named to the All-MLB Second Team.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/2020-all-mlb-team|title=Here is the star-studded 2020 All-MLB Team

|work=MLB.com|first=Anthony|last=Castrovince|date=December 9, 2020|access-date=January 26, 2021}}

Kershaw made his ninth opening day start for the Dodgers, after having missed doing so the previous two seasons because of injuries.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2021-03-14/dodgers-kershaw-opening-day-starting-pitcher-rockies|title=Clayton Kershaw to make his ninth opening-day start for the Dodgers|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|first=Jorge|last=Castillo|date=March 14, 2021|access-date=October 7, 2021}} He remained in the rotation until July 7, when he was placed on the injured list with left forearm inflammation, the first time in his career he had gone on the IL with an arm injury.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2021-07-07/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-injured-list-left-forearm-inflammation|title=Dodgers place Clayton Kershaw on injured list with left forearm inflammation|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|first=Jorge|last=Castillo|date=July 7, 2021|access-date=October 7, 2021}} Initially it was hoped he would only miss a short time, but he had setbacks in his rehab which necessitated a longer stint on the injured list.{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2021-08-07/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-expects-return-from-elbow-injury-early-september|title=Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw expects to return from elbow injury in early September|work=Los Angeles Times|first=Mike|last=DiGiovanna|date=August 7, 2021|access-date=October 7, 2021}} He finally rejoined the Dodgers rotation on September 13, allowing only one run in {{fraction|4|1|3}} innings against the Diamondbacks.{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2021-09-13/clayton-kershaw-returns-dodgers-victory-arizona-diamondbacks|title=Clayton Kershaw's return an important step for October-focused Dodgers|work=Los Angeles Times|first=Jorge|last=Castillo|date=September 13, 2021|access-date=October 7, 2021}} However, he experienced more arm pain in an October 1 game against the Brewers, causing him to leave the game in the second inning.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2021-10-01/dodgers-comeback-victory-brewers-clayton-kershaw-injury-giants|title=Clayton Kershaw's injury mars another power-fueled Dodgers comeback|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|first=Mike|last=DiGiovanna|date=October 1, 2021|access-date=October 7, 2021}} An MRI showed no ligament damage, but Kershaw was placed back on the injured list and ruled out for the 2021 post-season.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2021/10/6/22711902/clayton-kershaw-elbow-injury-no-surgery-dodgers-out-for-postseason|title=Clayton Kershaw won't need surgery, but will miss postseason|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=October 6, 2021|access-date=October 7, 2021}} He started 22 games for the Dodgers during the season, with a 10–8 record and 3.55 ERA, the highest since his rookie season.

On March 13, 2022, Kershaw signed a one-year deal worth $17 million to return to the Dodgers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-deal|title=Kershaw re-joins Dodgers on 1-year deal|last=Toribio|first=Juan|date=March 13, 2022|accessdate=March 13, 2022}} In his first start of the season, on April 13 against the Minnesota Twins, Kershaw struck out 13 batters in seven perfect innings before he was removed by the manager. Despite only being at 80 pitches, Kershaw said he agreed with the decision because he had not been built up due to a shortened spring training caused by the offseason lockout.{{cite web | last=Hall | first=Brian | title=Clayton Kershaw removed from perfect game | website=MLB.com | date=2022-04-13 | url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-removed-from-perfect-game | access-date=2024-11-01}}

On April 30, Kershaw set the Dodgers franchise strikeout record, striking out Spencer Torkelson of the Detroit Tigers to move past Don Sutton.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-becomes-dodgers-all-time-franchise-strikeout-leader|title='It meant a lot': Fans embrace Kershaw as he sets franchise K record|work=mlb.com|first=Juan|last=Toribio|date=April 30, 2022|accessdate=May 1, 2022}} On July 15, Kershaw had another perfect game bid against the Los Angeles Angels, where he threw seven perfect innings until it was broken up by a lead-off double by Luis Rengifo in the eighth inning.{{Cite web |last=Ardaya |first=Fabian |date=July 16, 2022 |title=Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw loses perfect game in eighth inning vs. Angels |url=https://theathletic.com/news/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-perfect-angels/gFxMe7DXfZqs/ |access-date=July 17, 2022 |website=The Athletic}}

Kershaw was chosen to start the 2022 Major League Baseball All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium. It was his ninth All-Star selection and the first time he was chosen to start.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2022-07-18/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-all-star-game-starter-national-league-dodger-stadium|title=Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw to start All-Star Game for National League at home stadium|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|first=Jack|last=Harris|date=July 18, 2022|accessdate=July 18, 2022}} In his one inning of work, he allowed one hit and one walk with a strikeout and picked off Shohei Ohtani from first base.{{cite web |title=2022 All-Star Game Box Score, July 19 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/allstar/2022-allstar-game.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=June 24, 2024}} For the season, Kershaw made 22 starts and finished with a 12–3 record and 2.28 ERA. He had two stints on the injured list: in May due to a pelvic joint inflammation,{{cite news |last1=Wexler |first1=Sarah |title=Clayton Kershaw on injured list with pelvic joint inflammation |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-on-injured-list-with-pelvic-joint-inflammation |access-date=June 24, 2024 |work=MLB.com |date=May 14, 2022}} and in August due to an issue in his back.{{cite magazine |last1=Chavkin |first1=Daniel |title=Dodgers Announce Clayton Kershaw Is on Injured List |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2022/08/05/dodgers-announce-clayton-kershaw-is-on-injured-list |access-date=June 24, 2024 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=August 5, 2022}}

In the 2022 NLDS, Kershaw started Game 2 against the San Diego Padres, allowing three runs on seven hits across five innings. He left the game tied, with the Dodgers eventually losing the game and then losing the series to the Padres three games to one.{{cite web |title=2022 NL Division Series: San Diego Padres over Los Angeles Dodgers (3-1) |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2022_NLDS2.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=June 24, 2024}} Following the season, Kershaw again re-signed with the Dodgers, for one year and $15 million, with a $5 million signing bonus.{{Cite web |last=Toribio |first=Juan |date=December 5, 2022 |title=It's official: Kershaw returning to Dodgers for 16th season |url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-deal-2023 |access-date=December 5, 2022 |website=MLB.com}}

On April 18, Kershaw recorded his 200th career win against the New York Mets, becoming the third pitcher in Dodgers history to accomplish that feat.{{Cite web |last=Toribio |first=Juan |date=April 18, 2023 |title=200 wins! Kershaw vintage in milestone victory |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-200-career-wins |access-date=2024-11-01 |website=MLB.com}} For the month of April, Kershaw was selected as the NL Pitcher of the Month.{{cite web | last=Murphy | first=Brian | title=2023 MLB Monthly Award winners | website=MLB.com | date=2023-05-03 | url=https://www.mlb.com/news/2023-mlb-monthly-award-winners | access-date=2024-11-01}}

He struggled during the month of May, recording a 5.55 ERA, before rebounding in June. He was selected to the 2023 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, his tenth selection, tying Pee Wee Reese for the most all-time by a Dodgers player.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/will-smith-clayton-kershaw-join-dodgers-on-2023-all-star-game-roster|title=Smith, Kershaw join Betts, Freeman, Martinez on All-Star roster|work=mlb.com|first=Juan|last=Toribio|date=July 2, 2023|accessdate=July 2, 2023}} Before the All-Star break, he was placed on the injured list due to a sore left shoulder.{{cite news |last1=Lacques |first1=Gabe |title=Clayton Kershaw goes on injured list, will miss All-Star Game due to sore shoulder |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/dodgers/2023/07/03/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-injured-list-miss-mlb-all-star-game/70380992007/ |access-date=5 April 2024 |work=USA Today |date=July 3, 2023}} On September 23, he picked up his 210th win, passing Don Drysdale for second most in franchise history.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-gets-win-as-la-clinches-first-round-bye?game_pk=716456|title=Kershaw passes Drysdale for 2nd place in franchise wins|work=MLB.com|first=Sarah|last=Wexler|date=September 23, 2023|accessdate=September 24, 2023}} Kershaw finished the regular season with a 13–5 record, 2.46 ERA and 137 strikeouts in {{fraction|131|2|3}} innings, his highest total since the 2019 season.

Kershaw opened the Dodgers' 2023 postseason with the worst start of his career in Game 1 of the NLDS. He allowed six runs against the Diamondbacks while only recording one out.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-records-one-out-in-nlds-game-1|title=Kershaw yields 6 runs in 'embarrassing' Game 1 start|work=mlb.com|first=Juan|last=Toribio|date=October 7, 2023|accessdate=October 8, 2023}} The Diamondbacks ended up sweeping the Dodgers in three games.{{cite web|last=Marshall|first=John|title=Another 100-win season leads to another October flop for Dodgers|url=https://apnews.com/article/dodgers-another-season-of-failure-50a7a394a0e88fad9490725a2d59bc37|work=AP News|date=October 11, 2023|access-date=October 12, 2023}} In the offseason, on November 3, he underwent surgery on his left shoulder to repair the glenohumeral ligaments and capsule.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2023-11-03/clayton-kershaw-left-shoulder-surgery-return-next-season-retirement|title=Clayton Kershaw has left shoulder surgery, says he's "hopeful to return" next season|newspaper=LA Times|first=Jack|last=Harris|date=November 3, 2023|accessdate=November 3, 2023}}

Kershaw stated that his recovery from surgery and injury would keep him out of game action for at least the first half of the season. Despite that, on February 9, 2024, he re-signed with the Dodgers on a one-year, $10 million contract with a player option for the 2025 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-discusses-re-signing-with-dodgers|title=Kershaw's biggest decision yet ended with a return to LA|work=MLB.com|first=Juan|last=Toribio|date=February 9, 2024|accessdate=February 9, 2024}} Kershaw was activated off the injured list on July 25 to make his season debut against the Giants.{{cite press release |title=Dodgers activate Clayton Kershaw |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/press-release-dodgers-activate-clayton-kershaw-x3352 |access-date=August 17, 2024 |work=MLB.com |date=July 25, 2024}}

In his first start in 2024, he pitched four innings and struck out six batters against the Giants.{{cite web | last=Soto | first=Andrés | title=Clayton Kershaw pitches 4 innings in first start of 2024 season | website=MLB.com | date=2024-07-26 | url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-pitches-4-innings-in-first-start-of-2024-season | access-date=2024-11-01}} On July 31, he lasted only {{fraction|3|2|3}} innings in a loss to the Padres, allowing seven runs and failing to record a strikeout for the first time during a start.{{cite news |last1=Gonzalez |first1=Alden |title=Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw rocked in first career 0-K start |url=https://www.espn.in/mlb/story/_/id/40695754/dodgers-clayton-kershaw-rocked-padres-first-career-0-k-start |access-date=August 17, 2024 |work=ESPN.com |date=August 1, 2024}} On August 12, Kershaw got his first win of the season against the Brewers, where he pitched {{fraction|5|2|3}} innings, giving up three hits and one earned run, while striking out six batters.{{cite web | last=Stebbins | first=Tim | title=Mookie Betts homers in first game off injured list | website=MLB.com | date=2024-08-13 | url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mookie-betts-returns-to-dodgers-playing-right-field | access-date=2024-11-01}} On August 31, Kershaw was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a bone spur in his left big toe.{{Cite web |date=2024-08-31 |title=Dodgers place LHP Clayton Kershaw on 15-day injured list due to bone spur in toe |url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/baseball/dodgers-place-lhp-clayton-kershaw-on-15-day-injured-list-due-to-bone-spur-in/article_3e6f0cdd-209a-58a2-a669-5b4aa65e2623.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Toronto Star|agency=Associated Press}} That injury kept him sidelined for the rest of the remainder of the regular season and the entire postseason.{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2024-09-26/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-return-injury-toe-playoffs|title=Clayton Kershaw isn't giving up on a return, but he could still be out for weeks|newspaper=LA Times|first=Mike|last=DiGiovanna|date=September 26, 2024|accessdate=September 27, 2024}}{{cite web |last1=Murphy |first1=Brian |title=Clayton Kershaw ruled out for entire 2024 postseason |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/clayton-kershaw-out-for-2024-postseason |website=MLB.com |date=October 6, 2024 |access-date=October 31, 2024}} He only managed to make seven starts in 2024, pitching 30 innings with a 2–2 record and 4.50 ERA, all career lows.

With Kershaw sidelined for the remainder of the year, the Dodgers won the 2024 World Series against the New York Yankees.{{cite web | last=Gonzalez | first=Alden | title=In 'crazy' year, Dodgers win title after wild rally | website=ESPN.com | date=2024-10-31 | url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/42103781/dodgers-win-world-series-wild-comeback-game-5 | access-date=2024-11-01}} After the season, he revealed that he would undergo surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee as well as for a ruptured plantar plate and bone spurs in his left big toe.{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2024-11-01/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-world-series-parade-surgery|title=Clayton Kershaw revels in his first World Series parade, reveals additional injury|work=Los Angeles Times|first=Mike|last=DiGiovanna|date=November 1, 2024|accessdate=November 1, 2024}} On November 4, he declined the 2025 player option on his contract, making him a free agent.{{cite web|url=https://www.truebluela.com/2024/11/4/24287426/clayton-kershaw-player-option-dodgers-roster-2025|title=Clayton Kershaw declines 2025 player option, making him a free agent (for now)|work=SB Nation|first=Eric|last=Stephen|date=November 4, 2024|accessdate=November 4, 2024}}

On February 13, 2025, Kershaw again re-signed with the Dodgers, on a one-year, $7.5 million contract, that also included roster and game-started bonuses.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-contract-dodgers|title=Kershaw returns to Dodgers for 18th season|first=Sonja|last=Chen|work=MLB.com|date=February 13, 2025|accessdate=February 13, 2025}} His 18th season with the Dodgers matched the longest for any player in franchise history, joining Zack Wheat and Bill Russell. He also became the 59th player in MLB history to spend 18 seasons with one team.{{cite web|url=https://www.ocregister.com/2025/02/13/dodger-for-life-clayton-kershaw-officially-re-signs-for-18th-year/ |title= ‘Dodger for life’ Clayton Kershaw officially re-signs for 18th year |first=Bill|last=Plunkett|work=Orange County Register|date=February 13, 2025|accessdate=February 13, 2025}}

After beginning the season on the injured list while recovering from his off-season surgery, Kershaw rejoined the Dodgers active roster on May 17.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/clayton-kershaw-set-for-2025-debut-with-dodgers|title=Dodgers welcome Kershaw back for 18th season|first=Sonja|last=Chen|work=MLB.com|date=May 17, 2025|accessdate=May 17, 2025}} In his first game back, he allowed five earned runs on five hits while recording three walks and two strikeouts in four innings.{{cite news |last1=Padilla |first1=Doug |title=Kershaw exits after 4 shaky innings in rusty season debut for Dodgers |url=https://apnews.com/article/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-0e17388e08b675df24e5a0d9d429354c |access-date=May 18, 2025 |work=AP News |date=May 17, 2025}}

File:Kershaw2012(01).jpg

Kershaw's pitching style relies on deception, movement, and changes in velocity. He keeps the ball hidden so that it is hard for the batter to pick up the ball and has a consistent overhand delivery on all of his pitches. He also consistently lands low on the strike zone below the catcher's knees, causing batters to chase the ball even when it is going to hit the dirt. Out of the windup, Kershaw lowers his right foot vertically with a slight pause before moving it forward toward the plate. The motion was described during the 2015 National League Division Series as a "kickstand move," drawing a comparison with one setting a kickstand on a bicycle.{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Jeff |date=August 21, 2013 |title=Clayton Kershaw's Deception |url=http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/clayton-kershaws-deception/ |access-date=September 13, 2013 |website=Fangraphs}} Out of the stretch, he uses a slide step as it makes it difficult for a baserunner at first base to get a read on him.{{Cite web |last=Eisenberg |first=Alex |date=May 13, 2008 |title=Is Clayton Kershaw worth the hype |url=http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/is-clayton-kershaw-worth-the-hype/ |access-date=September 28, 2011 |website=hardball times}} He has often said that he modeled his pitching mechanics after his favorite pitcher growing up, Roger Clemens.{{Cite web |date=September 26, 2011 |title=The Dan Patrick Show: Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw on his chances to win the NL Cy Young Award - 9/26 |url=http://www.csnchicago.com/sportsnetChicago/search/v/46390237/the-dan-patrick-show-dodgers-pitcher-clayton-kershaw-on-his-chances-to-win-the-nl-cy-young-award-9-26.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024082242/http://www.csnchicago.com/sportsnetChicago/search/v/46390237/the-dan-patrick-show-dodgers-pitcher-clayton-kershaw-on-his-chances-to-win-the-nl-cy-young-award-9-26.htm |archive-date=October 24, 2013 |access-date=September 28, 2011 |website=CSNChicago.com |type=Video}}

Kershaw's repertoire includes a four-seam fastball that sits anywhere from {{convert|91|mph}} to {{convert|95|mph}} and in his younger years topped out at {{convert|98|mph}} with late movement, a slider at {{convert|84|mph}}–{{convert|90|mph}}, a 12–6 curveball between {{convert|72|mph}}–{{convert|75|mph}}, and a seldom thrown changeup (under 3%).{{cite web|url=http://www.fangraphs.com/pitchfx.aspx?playerid=2036&position=P|title=Clayton Kershaw Fangraphs Pitchf/x|publisher=Fangraphs|access-date=April 10, 2017}} He is also known for having one of the better pickoff moves to first base and is generally considered one of the better fielding pitchers in the game.{{cite web|url=http://scores.nbcsports.msnbc.com/mlb/getleaders.asp?rank=283|title=2011 Pickoff leaders|publisher=Stats Inc.|access-date=September 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120404141221/http://scores.nbcsports.msnbc.com/mlb/getleaders.asp?rank=283|archive-date=April 4, 2012|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web |last=Rosecrans |first=C. Trent |date=September 19, 2011 |title=Picking the National League's best defenders |url=http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22297882/32126568 |access-date=September 28, 2011 |website=CBSSports.com}}

Kershaw made a cameo appearance in "Prince", a Season 3 episode of New Girl that originally aired following FOX's telecast of Super Bowl XLVIII.{{cite web|url=https://www.mlive.com/loons/2014/01/clayton_kershaw_makes_appearan.html |title=Clayton Kershaw makes appearance on 'New Girl' after Super Bowl |date=January 31, 2014 |first=Hugh |last=Bernreuter |website=mlive.com| url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140316082407/http://www.mlive.com/loons/index.ssf/2014/01/clayton_kershaw_makes_appearan.html |archive-date=March 16, 2014}}

Kershaw and his wife, Ellen, co-authored a book, Arise: Live Out Your Faith and Dreams on Whatever Field You Find Yourself, about their Christian faith and humanitarian efforts. It was released on January 10, 2012, by Regal Press.

Before the 2011 season, Kershaw visited Zambia with his wife as part of a Christian mission. After the trip, he announced his dream of building an orphanage in Lusaka, which he called "Hope's Home" after 11-year-old Hope, an HIV-positive child Kershaw met in Zambia. To accomplish his goal, Kershaw pledged a donation of $100 per strikeout recorded in 2011. With a then-career-high of 248 strikeouts thrown during the 2011 season, combined with additional donations through his Kershaw's Challenge organization, the initial $70,000 goal - later increased to $100,000 - was exceeded.{{Cite web|date=2012-01-20|title=Kershaw's Challenge – Strikeout to Serve|url=http://www.kershawschallenge.com:80/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120120192151/http://www.kershawschallenge.com/|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 20, 2012|access-date=2020-06-25}} When Kershaw won the 2011 Players Choice Award, he donated $260,000 to Hope's Home.

He and his wife returned to Zambia in 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.kershawschallenge.com/|title=Kershaw's Challenge – Strikeout to Serve|publisher=Kershawschallenge.com|access-date=September 28, 2011}} Kershaw donated $100 for every strikeout in the 2012 season to Kershaw's Challenge, calling that season's incarnation of the project "Strike Out To Serve." Seventy percent of the money raised in 2012 went to Arise Africa, with 10 percent each going to the Peacock Foundation in Los Angeles, Mercy Street in Dallas, and I Am Second.{{Cite web |last=Sherrington |first=Kevin |date=November 5, 2012 |title=Sherrington: Ex-Highland Park star Kershaw's an ace when giving back |url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/columnists/kevin-sherrington/20121103-sherrington-ex-highland-park-star-kershaws-an-ace-when-giving-back.ece |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924123800/https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/columnists/kevin-sherrington/20121103-sherrington-ex-highland-park-star-kershaws-an-ace-when-giving-back.ece |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |access-date=November 5, 2012 |website=The Dallas Morning News}} In 2014, Kershaw continued to support the children of Zambia, in partnership with CURE International, raising funds to pay for 170 children's surgeries and new medical equipment for CURE hospital in Lusaka.{{cite web|url=http://www.kershawschallenge.com/2014-overview/|title=Kershaw's Challenge – 2014 Overview|publisher=kershawschallenge.com|access-date=August 27, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908052344/http://www.kershawschallenge.com/2014-overview/|archive-date=September 8, 2015|url-status=dead}} Kershaw continued his partnership with CURE International in 2015, setting a goal of funding 100 surgeries for CURE's hospital in the Dominican Republic.{{cite web|url=http://www.kershawschallenge.com/cure-dominican-republic/|title=Kershaw's Challenge – 2015 Project|publisher=kershawschallenge.com|access-date=August 27, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908052714/http://www.kershawschallenge.com/cure-dominican-republic/|archive-date=September 8, 2015|url-status=dead}}

In mid-December 2015, Kershaw participated in an expedition to Cuba composed of MLB officials and players, including former Dodgers manager Joe Torre. It was the first visit by MLB since 1999 and one anticipated as an important step to help normalize relations with the United States that had begun to ease earlier in the year.{{cite web |last=Quiñones |first=Ronal |url=http://www.havanatimes.org/?p=115550 |title=Joe Torre: Baseball can unite Cuba and the USA |work=Havana Times |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015}}{{cite web |last=Goold |first=Derrick |url=http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/birdland/goold-torre-exhilarated-by-reception-in-cuba/article_aa620138-79d1-5a42-a630-2afd43e96c16.html |title=Torre exhilarated by reception in Cuba |work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015}}

In addition to Hope's Home and Kershaw's Challenge, he has also helped with other programs in Los Angeles, such as helping Habitat for Humanity demolish and rehabilitate a house in Lynwood, California.{{cite web|url=http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120424&content_id=29537474&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|title=Trio of Dodgers assists Habitat for Humanity|work=mlb.com|date=April 24, 2012|last=Cassavell|first=AJ|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-date=March 13, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313002347/http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120424&content_id=29537474&vkey=news_la&c_id=la|url-status=dead}} He is also a supporter of the Peacock Foundation, which provides animal-assisted interventions and activities for at-risk youth by partnering with mental health practitioners, public service agencies and community organizations.{{cite web|url=http://peacockfoundation.org/kershaws-challenge/|title=Kershaw's Challenge – Peacock Foundation|publisher=peacockfoundation.org|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928175655/http://peacockfoundation.org/kershaws-challenge/|archive-date=September 28, 2013|url-status=dead}}

Since the 2013 season, Kershaw and his wife have hosted “Ping Pong 4 Purpose,” a charity ping-pong tournament at Dodger Stadium. The tournament raises money for Kershaw's Challenge and features past and present members of the Dodgers, high-profile celebrities, and team sponsors.{{cite web|url=https://www.kershawschallenge.com/pp4p/|title=Ping Pong 4 Purpose|website=Kershaw's Challenge|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140815230029/http://www.kershawschallenge.com/pp4p|archive-date=August 15, 2014|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/clayton-kershaw-jimmy-kimmel-host-ping-pong-4-a-purpose-at-dodger-stadium-1025081|title=Clayton Kershaw, Jimmy Kimmel Host "Ping Pong 4 Purpose" at Dodger Stadium|last=Kramer|first=Alex|date=July 28, 2017|website=Hollywood Reporter|access-date=January 29, 2018}}

In 2023, the Dodgers received backlash from Christian groups for inviting the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, an LGBT charity, to receive a "Community Hero Award" at their annual Pride Night event.{{Cite web |last=Cazares |first=Christian |date=2023-05-18 |title='Cowardly': Dodgers Pull Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence From Pride Night |url=https://www.nbclosangeles.com/local-2/dodgers-pride-night-sisters-of-perpetual-indulgence/3155444/ |access-date=2023-05-19 |website=NBC Los Angeles |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Henson |first=Steve |date=2023-05-18 |title='Sisters' respond to Dodgers' Pride Night removal: We will continue 'to serve and uplift' |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2023-05-17/dodgers-wont-honor-sisters-perpetual-indulgence-lgbtq-pride-night |access-date=2023-05-19 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}} Kershaw criticized the inclusion of the Sisters, saying their parodies were offensive to Christians.{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Jack |date=2023-05-30 |title=Clayton Kershaw disagreed with Sisters' award, sought return of Dodgers' Christian day |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2023-05-29/clayton-kershaw-explains-dodgers-christian-faith-family-day |access-date=2023-06-03 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}} In response, he urged the Dodgers to speed up plans for "Christian Faith and Family Day", both promoting and hosting it.{{cite web | last=Sternfield | first=Marc | title=Dodgers, Kershaw announce 'Christian Faith' event amid Pride fallout | website=KTLA | date=2023-05-26 | url=https://ktla.com/news/local-news/dodgers-kershaw-announce-christian-faith-event-amid-pride-night-controversy/ | access-date=2024-11-01}} His decision to push for the event received criticism from the LGBT community.{{Cite news |last=Schultz |first=Ken |date=June 1, 2023 |title=Clayton Kershaw's criticism of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence overlooks the reasons behind their drag |url=https://www.outsports.com/2023/6/1/23743985/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-pride-night-sisters-of-perpetual-indulgence-gay-lgbtq-activism-catholic |access-date=2024-11-01 |work=Outsports}}{{Cite news |date=June 3, 2023 |title=Letters to Sports: Criticism abounds for Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers and Sisters |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2023-06-03/letters-la-times-sports-criticism-clayton-kershaw-dodgers-and-sisters |access-date=2024-11-01 |work=Los Angeles Times}}

File:P20250407DT-0440.jpg and President Donald Trump at the White House in 2025]]

Kershaw grew up in Highland Park, Texas, and attended school with quarterback Matthew Stafford. Stafford and Kershaw, members of the Highland Park High School class of 2006, were the highest-paid players in their leagues in 2017.{{cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/2017/8/29/16223252/matthew-stafford-clayton-kershaw-highland-park-high-school-mlb-nfl|title=Highland Park High School has produced 2017's highest-paid NFL and MLB players|access-date=August 30, 2017|date=August 29, 2017|publisher=SB Nation|author=Price, Satchel}} One of his favorite players growing up was former San Francisco Giants first baseman Will Clark, and the main reason he wears number 22 is to honor Clark.{{Cite web |last=Passan |first=Jeff |author-link=Jeff Passan |date=May 14, 2008 |title=Clayton Kershaw's great expectations – MLB |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-kershaw051408 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023084627/http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-kershaw051408 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |access-date=September 28, 2011 |publisher=Sports.yahoo.com}}

He is the great-nephew of astronomer Clyde Tombaugh, the discoverer of Pluto.{{cite news|last=Berg|first=Ted|title=Clayton Kershaw disses International Astronomers Union over Pluto|work=USA Today|date=July 30, 2013|url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2013/07/clayton-kershaw-disses-international-astronomers-union-over-pluto/|access-date=August 1, 2013}} His father, Christopher George Kershaw, was a musician and won a Clio Award for his work. The elder Kershaw remarried after his divorce from Marianne and died in 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/obituary.aspx?n=christopher-george-clayton-kershaw&pid=164545051#fbLoggedOut|title=Christopher George Clayton Kershaw (1949–2013) Obituary|work=The Dallas Morning News|date=April 30, 2013|access-date=September 12, 2013}} His mother died in May 2023.{{cite news |title=Marianne Tombaugh, mother of Dodgers star Clayton Kershaw, dies |url=https://www.espn.in/mlb/story/_/id/37649366/marianne-tombaugh-mother-dodgers-star-clayton-kershaw-die |access-date=June 18, 2024 |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=May 15, 2023}}

On December 4, 2010, Kershaw married his girlfriend of seven years, Ellen Melson.{{cite web|url=http://www.reporternews.com/news/2011/nov/18/greg-jaklewicz-cy-young-winners-wife-is-of-fan/|title=Cy Young winner's wife is granddaughter of Abilene baseball fan|first=Greg|last=Jaklewicz|date=November 18, 2011|work=reporternews.com|access-date=August 23, 2013|archive-date=July 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130703232634/http://www.reporternews.com/news/2011/nov/18/greg-jaklewicz-cy-young-winners-wife-is-of-fan/|url-status=dead}} The couple have four children together.{{cite web |title=Ellen and Clayton |url=https://www.kershawschallenge.com/about/ellen-and-clayton |website=kershawschallenge.com |access-date=June 18, 2024 |quote=Clayton and Ellen are high school sweethearts and married in 2010. They have four children, Cali Ann, Charley, Cooper and Chance.}} During the season, they reside in Studio City, Los Angeles, and they live in University Park, Texas, during the offseason.{{cite web | last=Leitereg | first=Neal J. | title=Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw drops $4 million in Studio City | website=Los Angeles Times | date=2014-11-20 | url=https://www.latimes.com/business/realestate/hot-property/la-fi-hotprop-clayton-kershaw-house-20141120-story.html | access-date=2024-10-23}}

Kershaw is a Methodist with strong religious faith,{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2010-feb-28-la-sp-dodgers-kershaw28-2010feb28-story.html|work=The Los Angeles Times|title=Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw keeps the faith|first=Dylan|last=Hernandez|date=February 28, 2010}}{{cite news|last=Passan|first=Jeff|url=http://articles.latimes.com/2012/jul/18/sports/la-sp-simers-dodgers-kershaw-20120718|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120720103836/http://articles.latimes.com/2012/jul/18/sports/la-sp-simers-dodgers-kershaw-20120718|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 20, 2012|title=Like it or not, Kershaw is about living by the book|newspaper=LA Times|date=May 14, 2008|access-date=September 28, 2011}} and shared his faith story in a 2012 video for the I Am Second series.{{cite web |url=http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/clayton-kershaw/ |title=Clayton Kershaw – I AM SECOND |work=I Am Second |access-date=October 26, 2017}}

• List of Los Angeles Dodgers no-hitters
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• List of Major League Baseball single-inning strikeout leaders
• List of World Series starting pitchers

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{{reflist|30em}}

{{commons category|Clayton Kershaw}}

• {{Baseballstats|mlb=477132|espn=28963|br=k/kershcl01|fangraphs=2036|brm=kersha001cla|retro=K/Pkersc001}}
• {{Official website|https://www.kershawschallenge.com|Kershaw's Challenge}}

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