Controversy over Clayton Kershaw’s presence on Dodgers mural: supporters want him out

Introduction

The unveiling of a new mural at Dodger Stadium has ignited debate among Los Angeles Dodgers fans and baseball enthusiasts. The mural features four prominent players: Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Clayton Kershaw. While the first three names are widely accepted as fitting representatives of the current Dodgers lineup, Kershaw’s inclusion has become a point of contention. Supporters of the decision view him as a franchise legend, but critics argue that his presence on the mural is undeserved based on recent performance, team dynamics, and off-field controversies.

Kershaw’s Legacy with the Dodgers

Since making his MLB debut in 2008, Clayton Kershaw has established himself as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history. Over his storied career, he has accumulated numerous accolades:

• Three-time National League (NL) Cy Young Award winner (2011, 2013, 2014)
• 2014 NL MVP
• Ten-time MLB All-Star
• 2020 World Series Champion
• Five-time NL ERA leader
• Multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards

Kershaw has been the face of the Dodgers for over a decade, consistently leading the team’s pitching staff and serving as a respected leader in the clubhouse. His contributions to the franchise extend beyond his on-field performance, as he has been involved in various charitable activities and community outreach programs.

The Mural and Its Significance

Murals at Dodger Stadium serve as a tribute to the team’s biggest stars, both past and present. The inclusion of Ohtani, Betts, and Freeman makes sense given their status as MVP-caliber players who are expected to carry the team forward. However, Kershaw’s inclusion is being questioned for several reasons:

1. Declining Performance: Kershaw, now in his mid-30s, has faced injuries and declining velocity in recent years. While still effective, he is no longer the dominant force he once was. Critics argue that younger players like Walker Buehler, Julio Urías (before his legal issues), or even newly signed Yoshinobu Yamamoto would have been more appropriate choices.
2. Future Uncertainty: Kershaw recently declined his player option for the 2025 season, leading to speculation about his future with the Dodgers. If he is no longer an active member of the team, should he be featured on a mural meant to represent the present and future of the franchise?
3. Exclusion of Other Stars: The Dodgers have invested heavily in new talent, including the acquisition of Roki Sasaki and the emergence of young stars like Bobby Miller. Some fans believe these rising stars deserve recognition instead of Kershaw, whose career may be nearing its end.

Off-Field Controversies

Kershaw’s inclusion on the mural is also controversial due to his public stance on certain social issues. In 2023, Kershaw voiced his disagreement with the Dodgers’ decision to honor the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group known for its activism and satirical approach to religious imagery, during the team’s Pride Night. In response, Kershaw advocated for the return of the Dodgers’ Christian Faith and Family Day, an event celebrating religious faith among players and fans.

This move polarized fans. Supporters applauded Kershaw for standing by his beliefs, while critics accused him of undermining the team’s efforts to foster inclusivity. The controversy led to heated debates within the Dodgers fanbase, with some arguing that his views were divisive and made his placement on the mural problematic.

Fan Reactions

Social media and sports forums have been flooded with discussions about the mural. While many fans support Kershaw’s inclusion as a franchise legend, others feel that the mural should focus on the future rather than the past. Some common sentiments include:

• Supporters:
  • “Kershaw has given everything to this team. He deserves to be on that wall.”
  • “He’s a first-ballot Hall of Famer and the best pitcher in Dodgers history.”
  • “You don’t erase legends just because they’re getting older.”
• Critics:
  • “This mural is about the Dodgers moving forward. Kershaw isn’t part of that future.”
  • “Other players like Yamamoto or Buehler deserve this spot more.”
  • “After his Pride Night comments, he’s too controversial to represent the team.”

The Role of Team Marketing

The Dodgers’ marketing department plays a crucial role in shaping the team’s image. By including Kershaw in the mural, they are acknowledging his significance to the franchise, even if his playing days are numbered. However, some believe this decision was made to appease older, more traditional fans rather than reflecting the current state of the team.

Murals and Baseball Tradition

Murals in sports stadiums are often a blend of history and modernity. For example:

• Yankee Stadium’s Monument Park features legends like Babe Ruth and Derek Jeter, but also includes recent greats like Aaron Judge.
• Fenway Park’s banners highlight both past and present Red Sox icons.
• Wrigley Field’s murals celebrate the Cubs’ storied history alongside contemporary stars.

In this context, Kershaw’s inclusion is not unusual. However, the controversy stems from whether his presence is more reflective of past achievements rather than future contributions.

Potential Resolutions

To address the divide, the Dodgers could consider alternative approaches:

1. Expand the Mural: Adding more players, such as Yamamoto, Buehler, or Sasaki, could satisfy fans who feel the current selection is incomplete.
2. Create a Hall of Fame Mural: If the team wants to honor Kershaw’s legacy, a separate mural for franchise legends might be more appropriate.
3. Rotate Players Annually: Updating murals every season would ensure recognition aligns with current team performance.

The Clayton Kershaw mural controversy reflects broader discussions about legacy, merit, and the evolution of a team’s identity. While Kershaw remains an all-time Dodgers great, his place on a mural meant to symbolize the franchise’s future is a topic of debate. Ultimately, whether fans support or oppose his inclusion, it is undeniable that Kershaw’s impact on the Dodgers and Major League Baseball as a whole is profound. The controversy underscores the passionate nature of sports fandom, where history, loyalty, and changing dynamics constantly intersect.