Clayton Kershaw, a storied left-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has observed a similar ambition and dedication in fellow Dodgers pitcher Tarik Skubal. Kershaw noted Skubal's commitment to improvement during their brief time together with Team USA, highlighting the younger pitcher's inquisitive nature and drive to emulate the success of baseball's elite.
"He wants to be great," Kershaw told The California Post. "I think that comes out in how he talks and how he prepares. You can tell he wants to be the best."
Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, acknowledged Kershaw as arguably the greatest left-handed pitcher of all time and sought his insights. "Obviously, that was a great opportunity for me to pick [his] brain and talk about what made him tick, what made him so good, his process, all that kind of stuff," Skubal said. "I want to accomplish all the same things he's been able to accomplish."
Skubal's own performance on the mound has been a subject of focus. On Sunday, he pitched six innings against the Milwaukee Brewers, allowing seven hits and two walks. His pitch count was at 48 after two innings, and he left the game with a 2-1 deficit, ultimately falling to 0-2 as a Dodger. Despite the outcome, Skubal limited the damage, with only one earned run against him, demonstrating his competitive spirit.
Kershaw, who pitched his final major league season with an average fastball velocity of 89.0 mph and still managed an 11-2 record, exemplifies longevity and consistency for Skubal. "I think what I admire about all the really good players in this game is that longevity and consistency, year in and year out, of who he was even towards the end of his career," Skubal remarked. "He was incredible from start to finish. That consistency is pretty impressive to watch. That's what I admire."
Skubal, 29, aims for a career path mirroring that of established greats like Kershaw and Justin Verlander, who has played 21 seasons. Skubal expressed his desire to play as long as he can contribute to a winning team. "I think I'm the most prepared player on the field every time I take the field," Skubal stated. "If I'm going to lose a game, I want it to be in my hands. I can wear the loss just because I know I prepare really well and I go out there and I don't really leave anything on the table. I give this game everything I've got."
Kershaw believes Skubal is ready for the pressures and expectations of playing in a major market for a team favored to win the World Series. "I think he's ready to do that," Kershaw said. "He's got the temperament and mentality. From what I saw, he puts the work in to be great."