News Summary The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched their 13th consecutive playoff berth with a 6-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants, marking a memorable farewell for veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw. As fans honored Kershaw’s illustrious career, the Dodgers improved their season record to 87-67. The game featured a standing ovation for Kershaw and showcased the uncertainties surrounding catcher Will Smith’s injury. With the postseason looming, the Dodgers now look forward to honoring Kershaw as they prepare for the next challenges ahead. Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched their 13th consecutive playoff berth with a 6-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Friday night. This win sealed their third straight victory and came in what was a memorable game as it marked the final regular-season outing for veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw. During Kershaw’s 228th start for the Dodgers, fans rose in a standing ovation, recognizing his illustrious career anticipated to lead to a future Hall of Fame induction. The game also showcased the poignant moment where Kershaw expressed gratitude for his time with the organization. This dual significance of the game, being a pivotal win and a farewell to a baseball icon, electrified Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers improved their season record to 87-67 with their recent triumph. They will host the Giants again on Saturday, September 20, at 9:10 p.m. ET at Dodger Stadium, where they planned to honor Kershaw with a bobblehead giveaway celebrating his 3,000 strikeout milestone. In the first inning of the game, the Giants initially took control with Bryce Eldridge hitting a 3-run double, marking his first career hit. Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow did not perform well under the pressure, throwing 32 pitches and allowing six Giants to reach base before finally recording the second out. Meanwhile, Kershaw experienced challenges with his control, conceding two runs in both the first and fourth innings, averaging only 89 mph with his fastball throughout his outing. Despite his struggles, Kershaw received a thunderous applause as he exited the game, underscoring the special connection he has built with Dodgers fans over his 18-year career. His teammates notably stayed back, allowing him to soak in the moment of appreciation when he took the mound for his last home appearance. As the season draws to a close, Dodgers catcher Will Smith may be unable to participate in the remainder of the regular season due to a hairline fracture in his right hand. His status for the upcoming postseason remains uncertain. Kershaw announced earlier in the week that he would retire at the end of the season, adding a touch of finality to his storied career that includes three Cy Young Awards and an MVP award. Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts commented on Kershaw’s role for the postseason, indicating uncertainty but acknowledging the pitcher’s potential contribution to the playoff roster. In summary, the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated both a crucial win to secure a playoff spot and a significant farewell to one of the franchise’s greatest pitchers. Kershaw concluded the regular season with a 3.55 ERA and a 10-2 record over 21 starts, cementing his legacy as a foundational piece of the Dodgers organization. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Additional Resources SI.com: Dodgers Notes Wikipedia: Clayton Kershaw LA Times: Dodgers vs Giants Google Search: Dodgers playoffs 2025 USA Today: Giants vs Dodgers Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Baseball Dodgers Nation: Dodgers Lineup vs Giants MLB.com: Game Preview
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