Clayton Kershaw'S Goodbye Gift: A Final Jab At The Astros Scandal

Dodgers Solidify Their Dynasty Status

The Los Angeles Dodgers have once again claimed World Series glory, marking their third championship in the past six years. This incredible run of success officially secures their status as a modern dynasty in Major League Baseball. While Dodgers fans bask in the glow of yet another victory, the triumph stirs memories of past heartaches, particularly the 2017 World Series loss to the Houston Astros.

Rewinding to 2017, the Dodgers fell short of a title in a dramatic Game 7 against the Astros. However, that year remains controversial due to the infamous trash can-banging scandal, which cast a shadow over Houston's victory. Now, with three titles over the Astros' single win since 2017, the Dodgers have left their rivals in the dust, proudly reclaiming their dominance.

Kershaw's Parting Shot

As the Dodgers savored their latest accomplishment, Clayton Kershaw, who announced his retirement post-victory, had choice words for Astros loyalists. Reflecting on his World Series experiences, Kershaw remarked, "I've been in one other seven-game World Series and we lost that one. Ah, well, there's an asterisk on that one. But we won this one."

"Stop crying and move on," Kershaw seemed to suggest as he reminded the baseball world of the scandalous past.

Many MLB players, not just those in Dodger Blue, share Kershaw's sentiment regarding the Astros' tainted title. Despite the lack of severe penalties from the league, the scandal remains a contentious topic in the sport's history.

The Dodgers' Redemption Arc

Kershaw's remarks resonate deeply, especially for those who endured that bitter 2017 defeat. He has been a constant presence throughout the Dodgers' recent history, joining only Kiké Hernández and Brock Stewart as members of the 2025 roster who experienced that controversial series firsthand. For Kershaw, the 2017 loss was a significant setback in his career, but it ultimately paved the way for a triumphant comeback.

Now, with three World Series titles under their belt since that fateful year, the Dodgers are basking in the glory of their hard-earned redemption. Meanwhile, the Astros missed the playoffs in 2025, struggling with an aging and costly roster. Dodgers fans can savor every moment of this victory, knowing that justice, in a way, has been served.