Clayton Kershaw is one of the most successful and influential pitchers in the history of baseball. He has won three Cy Young Awards, an MVP award, a World Series title, and numerous other accolades. He is also known for his philanthropic work and his Christian faith. In this article, we will explore his personal and professional life, his achievements, and his future plans.
Early Life and Education
Clayton Edward Kershaw was born on March 19, 1988, in Dallas, Texas. His parents are Christopher George Kershaw and Marianne Kershaw. His father was a musician and his mother was a homemaker. He has a younger sister named Marissa.
Kershaw attended Highland Park High School, where he excelled in both academics and athletics. He played baseball, basketball, and football, and was the class valedictorian. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first round of the 2006 MLB draft, and decided to skip college and pursue his baseball career.
Professional Career
Kershaw made his major league debut in 2008, at the age of 20. He quickly established himself as one of the best pitchers in the game, with his dominant fastball, curveball, and slider. He led the National League in ERA for five consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2015, and won the Cy Young Award in 2011, 2013, and 2014. He also won the MVP award in 2014, becoming the first pitcher to do so since 1968.
Kershaw has been a key member of the Dodgers, helping them win eight division titles, three pennants, and one World Series championship in 2020. He holds several franchise and MLB records, such as the lowest career ERA among active players (2.43), the most strikeouts in a single postseason (207), and the most no-hitters (3).
Kershaw has also been recognized for his off-field contributions, such as his humanitarian work in Africa, his support for various charities, and his role model status for young players. He has received the Roberto Clemente Award, the Branch Rickey Award, and the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award for his efforts.
Personal Life and Family
Kershaw married his high school sweetheart, Ellen Melson, in 2010. They have four children: Cali Ann, Charley Clayton, Cooper Ellis, and Cody James. The couple founded Kershaw’s Challenge, a non-profit organization that aims to improve the lives of vulnerable children in the US, Africa, and the Dominican Republic. They also co-authored a book titled Arise: Live Out Your Faith and Dreams on Whatever Field You Find Yourself, which chronicles their journey of faith and service.
Kershaw is a devout Christian, and has said that his faith is the most important thing in his life. He attends Cornerstone Church in Los Angeles, and has been involved in various ministries and missions. He has also shared his testimony and his views on various topics, such as marriage, parenting, and social justice.
Net Worth and Salary
According to Forbes, Kershaw has a net worth of $60 million as of December 2023. He obtained the major source of income from playing baseball competitions. He currently plays in the Major League Baseball for the LA Dodgers as the “pitcher” of the team. His seven years contract for $215 million, has tremendously risen his present net worth.
Kershaw signed a three-year, $93 million extension with the Los Angeles Dodgers in November 2018 after opting out of the previous pact. The new contract included a $23 million signing bonus paid out in three equal annual installments from 2019 to 2021. The deal also contains performance bonuses worth $1 million each for making 24, 26, 28 and 30 starts each season; he banked $3 million in 2019. In 2021, Kershaw will earn a base salary of $23,333,334, while the total salary will be $31,000,000.
Kershaw also earns money from endorsements and sponsorships. He has partnered with brands such as Skechers, Topps, and Wilson Sporting Goods. He also makes appearances and gives speeches at various events and functions.
Future Plans and Goals
Kershaw is still active and passionate about his baseball career, and has expressed his desire to play as long as he can. He is also focused on his family and his faith, and wants to raise his children in a loving and godly environment. He hopes to continue his philanthropic work and make a positive impact on the world.
Kershaw has also hinted at his interest in pursuing other ventures after his retirement from baseball, such as coaching, broadcasting, or writing. He has said that he wants to use his platform and his gifts to glorify God and serve others.
Conclusion
Clayton Kershaw is more than just a baseball player. He is a leader, a humanitarian, a husband, a father, and a follower of Christ. He has achieved remarkable success and fame, but has also remained humble and generous. He is an inspiration and a role model for many people, and has shown that one can excel in both sports and life.
10 Most Asked Questions and Answers
- Q: How old is Clayton Kershaw?
- A: Clayton Kershaw is 35 years old as of March 19, 2023.
- Q: Where did Clayton Kershaw go to college?
- A: Clayton Kershaw did not go to college. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first round of the 2006 MLB draft, and decided to skip college and pursue his baseball career.
- Q: Who is Clayton Kershaw’s wife?
- A: Clayton Kershaw’s wife is Ellen Melson, whom he married in 2010. They met in high school and have been together ever since.
- Q: How many children does Clayton Kershaw have?
- A: Clayton Kershaw has four children: Cali Ann, Charley Clayton, Cooper Ellis, and Cody James.
- Q: What is Clayton Kershaw’s nickname?
- A: Clayton Kershaw’s nickname is “Kersh”, which is derived from his last name.
- Q: What is Clayton Kershaw’s jersey number?
- A: Clayton Kershaw’s jersey number is 22, which he has worn since his debut in 2008.
- Q: What is Clayton Kershaw’s best pitch?
- A: Clayton Kershaw’s best pitch is his curveball, which he calls “Public Enemy No. 1”. It is a devastating breaking ball that drops sharply and fools hitters.
- Q: How many Cy Young Awards has Clayton Kershaw won?
- A: Clayton Kershaw has won three Cy Young Awards, in 2011, 2013, and 2014. He is the only pitcher in MLB history to win the award in three out of four seasons.
- Q: How many World Series titles has Clayton Kershaw won?
- A: Clayton Kershaw has won one World Series title, in 2020, with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was the winning pitcher in Game 1 and Game 5 of the series, and earned his first championship ring.
- Q: What is Clayton Kershaw’s charity?
- A: Clayton Kershaw’s charity is Kershaw’s Challenge, a non-profit organization that he and his wife founded in 2011. It aims to improve the lives of vulnerable children in the US, Africa, and the Dominican Republic, by providing them with education, health care, and other resources.