By Mallory Mattingly
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw was warming up during the 11th inning as his team secured the World Series title.
He didn’t even realize his team had won.
“When he hit the double play, I thought the run scored and it was tied. I had no idea. I thought I had the next batter,” Kershaw told the media, per AP News.
Bullpen catcher Josh Bard broke the news to Kershaw.
Related: LA Dodger Clayton Kershaw Reflects on God’s Providence
“Bardo was there and he looked at me, he said, ‘We just won the World Series’ and I was like, ‘Are you sure?’” Kershaw recalled.
Last Saturday, the Dodgers secured a 5-4 win in the 11th inning over the Toronto Blue Jays.
The World Series title is especially meaningful to Kershaw as he announced his retirement in September.
“It’s almost like a relationship, right? You’ve been in it 18 years with them,” Kershaw said of Dodgers fans after his final regular season start. “There’s some great times and then there’s some times where you probably want to break up for a minute. Just having them behind me the way they have been has been the icing on the cake. It’s been so amazing to have them here.”
“Dodger Stadium is a super special place, and the fans are the main reason why,” he added. “They continue to come out and support us. Every night it’s 50,000 people. I wish I had better words other than I’m just so honored and thankful to hear those ovations. I’ll never take that for granted.”
Several days later, he addressed fans personally.
“Wow. It’s been an amazing 18 years. I want to thank each and every one of you for being here today. I wish I had more to say, other than it’s just been incredible. I wouldn’t want it any other way. It’s been the most impactful 18 years of my life. I’ve raised four kids in L.A.,” the pitcher told the stadium full of fans.
“And to get to be here with you today and just get to say thank you one more time is just the most amazing thing in the world. So thank you guys so much. Thank you for everything. And remember, we got another month left, so we’ll see you at the end of October,” he concluded.
The Dodgers became back-to-back World Series champions on Saturday night, making Kershaw a three time World Series champ! He couldn’t have asked for a better way to end his career surrounded by his teammates and coaches of 18 years, as well as his family.
Read Next: Dodgers Pitcher Announces Retirement After 18 Years ‘Working for the Lord’
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