Tyler Glasnow, pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, emphasized Clayton Kershaw’s unique contributions to the team, not only as an elite pitcher but also as an influential coach and front office figure. Glasnow shared his thoughts on Monday, explaining how Kershaw’s impact extends beyond the field and into shaping the organization’s culture and operations.
Kershaw’s Influence Seen in Team Culture and Leadership
Glasnow described Kershaw as someone who embodies the spirit and competitive drive that defines the Dodgers. He remarked on Kershaw’s dedication and the respect he commands within the team, which affects how others approach the game and their roles. Glasnow said,
“Having him be in that organization for so long, you can definitely tell — I don’t know where the culture was established, but I think a lot of it is within him,”
further noting Kershaw’s multifaceted influence,
“He’s not only a player, he’s like a coach and a front office guy — so much revolves around what he thinks because he’s so highly respected.”
Kershaw’s Strong Voice Following Recent Defeat
Glasnow’s praise coincided with Kershaw’s outspoken reaction after the Dodgers were swept in a three-game series at home by the Milwaukee Brewers. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts later confirmed that Kershaw’s frustration reflected the mood in the clubhouse. Roberts stated,
“To not have guys hold up their end of the deal is frustrating,”
and added,
“Everyone in that clubhouse understood why he was so frustrated.”
This candid leadership moment underscored Kershaw’s role as a team motivator during challenging times.
Kershaw’s Storied Career and Current Status
Clayton Kershaw has spent his entire 18-year major league career with the Dodgers, who drafted him in the first round of 2006. Now a future Hall of Famer, Kershaw holds the franchise records for Wins Above Replacement and earned run average among starting pitchers, and recently surpassed 3,000 strikeouts. Despite not having a contract beyond 2025, Kershaw continues to contribute effectively, carrying a 4-1 win-loss record and a 3.27 ERA over 11 starts this season through Tuesday.
Teammates Respect Kershaw’s Consistency and Dedication
Beyond his statistical achievements, Kershaw earns admiration for his disciplined approach both on and off the field. Glasnow expressed deep respect for Kershaw’s consistency and professionalism, stating,
“Every single thing he does in his life is just … good. He does everything at the highest level. Just watching someone navigate a season and, like, a life the way he does is very, very impressive.”
He added,
“I haven’t really played with someone as dialed in as him. I’ve played with a lot of really good veterans who do it their own way, but he’s just kind of like a freak. It’s so hard to explain. … Everything is just so dialed in.”
Kershaw’s Enduring Role and Future with the Dodgers
As Kershaw approaches the twilight of his career, his presence remains a stabilizing force in the Dodgers’ rotation and clubhouse. His multifaceted role as a player, mentor, and informal leader continues to shape the team’s identity. With uncertainty surrounding his contract status for 2026, the current season may mark the final chapter of Kershaw’s playing career, but his legacy is firmly ingrained in the Dodgers’ culture and history.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What surgery did Tyler Glasnow get?
A. In 2022, Glasnow underwent Tommy John surgery. Last season, he started 21 games and pitched 120 innings for the Tampa Bay Rays. This year, he improved with personal bests of 22 starts and 134 innings pitched, finishing his season on August 11. He achieved 11.3 strikeouts for every nine innings pitched.
Q. Has Tyler Glasnow ever had Tommy John surgery?
A. Tyler Glasnow had ongoing elbow issues for three years while playing in Tampa Bay. In 2021, his ulnar collateral ligament finally failed. The 6-foot-8 pitcher then had Tommy John surgery in August. The procedure included replacing the ligament and adding an internal brace for extra support.