February 17th, 2023 at 1:15 pm 
by Ron Cervenka From a professional and competitive point of view, it was understandably a very difficult decision to make. But from a logical and entirely selfish fans point of view, it was very welcomed news,
Early Friday afternoon from the Dodgers Spring Training facility at Camelback Ranch-Glendale, Dodgers ace and soon-to-be (on March 19) 35-year-old future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw told reporters that he has withdrawn from the upcoming World Baseball Classic for Team USA March 11-15 at nearby Chase Field.
“I really wanted to be a part of that group, probably my last chance to do it, so I really wanted to do it, but just didn’t work out for a number of reasons,” the Dallas, TX native and Dodgers first-round draft pick in 2006 told reporters. “Disappointing, but that’s OK. I’ll be ready for the season and ready to go.”
As every Dodgers – and baseball – fan on the planet knows, Kershaw has a rather extensive history of back issues, having spent time on the Dodgers injured list in five of his last seven seasons, each time for no less than three weeks.
(SportsNet LA)
Although difficult and understandably disappointing, it was the right call, Kersh.
…and (selfishly), thank you.
Play Ball!
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I’m very glad Kershaw is not going to be in the WBC. No sense risking an injury. I am totally against the WBC and have no inclination to watch it. I feel it’s just another way for MLB to squeeze another buck out of the fans.
Agree. When you look at the respective origins of today’s MLB players, we already have a WBC. Have for decades.