Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw has voiced his sadness following the team’s decision to designate his longtime teammate and close friend, Austin Barnes, for assignment. The move, announced on May 14, 2025, came as the Dodgers aimed to make room for rising star Dalton Rushing, who made his MLB debut shortly thereafter .
Kershaw, who has been with the Dodgers since 2008, shared his emotional reaction in a recent interview. He described the situation as “sad to see someone like that go,” highlighting the personal bond he shares with Barnes, who has been a fixture behind the plate for the Dodgers since 2015 .
Barnes, 35, has been a key contributor to the Dodgers’ success, including their World Series titles in 2020 and 2024. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and pitch-calling abilities, Barnes has been a trusted partner for Kershaw on the mound. Their partnership has been described as one of the most enduring and effective in recent MLB history
Despite his contributions, Barnes’ offensive performance in 2025 was limited, with a .214 batting average and two RBIs over 13 games. This decline in production led to the team’s decision to part ways with him, a move that has been met with mixed reactions from fans and players alike .
Kershaw’s comments underscore the emotional challenges that come with roster changes in professional sports. While the decision was made with the team’s future in mind, it reflects the deep personal connections that players develop over years of collaboration and shared success.
As the Dodgers continue their season, Kershaw’s sentiments serve as a reminder of the human side of professional sports, where friendships and team dynamics play a significant role in the game’s narrative.
