Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Clayton Kershaw withdraws from World Baseball Classic: "I'm not going to be able to play in the WBC"

Los Angeles Dodgers star pitcher Clayton Kershaw has announced that he will not be participating in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. He was slated to be one of the top starting pitchers for Team USA. No specific reason for his withdrawal was given, but he did confirm that it was not injury related. This is a big loss for Team USA and the tournament as a whole.

It is a shame that Kershaw will be unable to particpate, since it was likely his last opportunity to play in the WBC. For many players, the international tournament is quickly becoming a career highlight. Now, Team USA will have to find a pitcher to replace the three-time Cy Young award winner.

Clayton Kershaw confirmed his withdrawal himself, in this video posted to Twitter by Talkin' Baseball.

"I'm not going to be able to play in the WBC. Super dissapointing, we tried a lot of different things. All sides really tried to make it work" - Clayton Kershaw

This is incredibly disappointing for Team USA fans who hoped to see the Los Angeles Dodgers star in action against the best in the world. It will hopefully mean he is fully prepared for the upcoming MLB regular season.

Clayton Kershaw is not the first star player to withdraw from the World Baseball Classic

Minnesota Twins v Detroit Tigers

There has been an unfortunate rash of star players pulling out of the WBC. Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez and Minnesota Twins star Carlos Correa are among them.

Thankfully, the talent level of the tournament is still high and should create incredible moments.

The World Baseball Classic begins on March 7, and Sportskeeda will have all the coverage of the global tournament.