Clayton Kershaw had a historic night in more ways than the obvious.
Of course, the highlight was the Los Angeles Dodgers’ left-hander recording the 3,000th strikeout of his MLB career, a club that now includes 20 pitchers.
But he also was part of three pieces of distinct MLB history, two for the first time ever and one in which he joins an exclusive list that now has three names.
3,000 strikeouts with one team
Clayton Kershaw is one of three pitchers in MLB history to reach the 3,000-strikeout club all with one team, according to MLB’s Sarah Langs.
The others:
- Walter Johnson, Senators
- Bob Gibson, Cardinals
3,000th strikeout last pitch
Clayton Kershaw recorded his 3,000th career strikeout on the last pitch he threw Wednesday night.
He only needed three to get to 3K, but it didn’t come easily against the White Sox.
Kershaw became the first pitcher to exit the game immediately after his 3,000th strikeout, per OptaStats.
MORE: Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Cal Raleigh combine to make MLB history
3,000 strikeouts and a walk-off
The Dodgers walked-it-off to ensure that Clayton Kershaw’s big night would be celebrated in full.
Freddie Freeman delivered the game-ending hit.
It’s the first time a 3,000th strikeout was paired in the same game with a ninth-inning comeback win, according to OptaStats.
All in all, a very special night.
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