The legendary Clayton Kershaw welcomed Tarik Skubal to the Los Angeles Dodgers, solidifying the team’s culture as they pursue a third straight World Series.
The Los Angeles Dodgers made the biggest splash of the MLB trade deadline by acquiring reigning back-to-back American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers.
The addition gives Los Angeles another frontline starter as the organization pursues a third consecutive World Series.
Support from a Dodgers legend
Shortly after the trade became official, Skubal received a message from one of the greatest pitchers in franchise history.
The left-hander revealed that Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw reached out to welcome him to the organization.
Speaking to AM 570 LA Sports after the trade, Skubal said Kershaw texted him after he arrived in Los Angeles and gave him the lay of the land, a gesture he said he greatly appreciated.
“When I got traded here, (Clayton) texted me and gave me the lay of the land. I appreciated that,” Skubal said.
The two previously spent time together with Team USA during the World Baseball Classic in March, although Skubal’s stint with the team was brief.
Kershaw retired following the 2025 MLB season but continued representing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Having spent his entire MLB career with the Dodgers, his decision to welcome Skubal reflects the culture that has helped define the organization for years.
Skubal made his Dodgers debut Tuesday at Wrigley Field against the Chicago Cubs.
The left-hander allowed two runs on four hits (one home run) with six strikeouts and two walks in six innings to take the loss in a 5-1 setback.
The Milwaukee Brewers reportedly submitted an offer for Skubal before the deadline, but the Dodgers ultimately assembled the stronger trade package.
Dodgers got another postseason ace
While Skubal is scheduled to become a free agent after the season, many around MLB expect Los Angeles to pursue a long-term contract with him.
His postseason résumé makes him an even more valuable addition.
Skubal owns a 2-1 record with a 2.04 ERA and a 0.73 WHIP in 39.2 innings across six postseason starts while recording 56 strikeouts against only six walks.
Although all six postseason starts have come in the American League Wild Card Series and American League Division Series, nothing about his performance suggests the moment has ever become too big.
Skubal’s ability to maintain outstanding command, generate swings and misses, and consistently execute against elite opponents indicates his approach is built for October baseball. He’s an ideal fit for a Dodgers team with World Series hopes.
Beyond his production, Skubal has earned a reputation for his competitiveness, preparation, and composure.
He attacks hitters with confidence, embraces pressure, and has consistently demonstrated the ability to perform in meaningful games. His willingness to continue improving also makes him one of MLB’s most respected starters.
