Dodgers lefty Clayton Kershaw said his wife, Ellen, is “not reliever ready” after Fox cameras captured her nervously clenching her fists when he entered Game 3 of the World Series against the Blue Jays in a tense spot in the 12th inning Monday night.
Ellen, wearing his No. 22 jersey, was on a rollercoaster of emotions, as seen in a X video posted by MLB that showed her in tears.
Kershaw — who announced his decision to retire after this season following an illustrious 18-year career with Los Angeles — entered the game after the Blue Jays loaded the bases with two outs in a tie game against reliever Emmet Sheehan and delivered.
Kershaw reached a full count against left-handed-hitter Nathan Lukes before retiring him on a groundout.
Ellen was clearly emotional while in the stands at Dodger Stadium — and received a hug from Tricia Roberts, the wife of Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts.
The Dodgers beat the Blue Jays, 6-5, in a wild 18-inning thriller to grab a 2-1 series lead.
During his Hall of Fame career, the southpaw had a number of disappointing postseason moments — but this will go down as one of his most crucial appearances.
After the game, Kershaw joked that he was going to check on his wife after reporter Lauren Shehadi said Ellen looked “unwell” as he took the mound.
“She’s not reliever ready. She’s starter ready … so I’m going to go check on her,” he said.
Kershaw joked that he’s still adjusting to the bullpen life after serving as a starter throughout his career.
“I warmed up a lot. I was loose,” he said. “I threw enough pitches. But that’s the life of a bullpen guy. I’m learning so I’m getting ready. I’m a bullpen guy for four more days and then I’m out.”
Kershaw explained that while it was a special night, he wasn’t ready to the face the idea of his final game.
“I’ll remember moments like this … and it’s too hard to think about right now,” he said.
“But it’s just so special this whole place is unbelievable. I can’t believe I’m getting to be in another World Series at Dodger Stadium. Memories for a lifetime.”
If that was Kershaw’s last time on the mound in his career — it was a pretty solid way to go out.
Game 4 of the World Series between the reigning champion Dodgers and the Blue Jays happens Tuesday at Dodger Stadium.
[Notigroup Newsroom in collaboration with other media outlets, with information from the following sources]
