Emotional Tribute: Justin Turner Lauds “Unbelievable Career” of Retired Icon Clayton Kershaw.vc
LOS ANGELES, CA – Following the emotional retirement of Los Angeles Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw, former teammate and close friend Justin Turner sent a heartfelt message acknowledging the historic impact of the left-handed ace, calling his career nothing short of legendary.
Turner, who spent nine seasons alongside Kershaw in Los Angeles (2014-2022), delivered a powerful compliment that encapsulated the respect Kershaw commands across the league:
“Very happy for him, what a career. I just can’t say enough about what he’s done for the career of baseball,” Turner said of Kershaw’s decision to retire after the Dodgers’ 2025 World Series victory.
A Storybook Ending
Turner’s comments came just weeks after the Dodgers clinched the 2025 World Series, giving Kershaw the ultimate storybook ending to his 18-year career—his third World Series ring. Turner was especially moved by Kershaw’s contribution in the championship series, noting a key relief appearance:
“I was glad he got into the extra-inning game and made that big pitch to get out of the jam,” Turner said, referencing a pivotal moment in Game 3. “When you have guys like that, who are icons of the game, it’s pretty cool that they get to walk away from it winning their last one.”
Kershaw and Turner were cornerstones of the Dodgers’ decade of dominance, having earned their first World Series rings together during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. Their long-standing camaraderie and shared pursuit of a title defined the modern era of Dodgers baseball.
While Turner, now a free agent, has signaled his intent to continue his playing career into 2026, he remains a devoted friend and admirer of the now-retired Hall-of-Fame bound pitcher.
