I really like the style and ability of Clayton Kershaw. I love to watch a true power pitcher perform is magic on the mound. And this season has seen him put together one of the most dominant seasons in the history of the game. He was so impressive, I expect he will be named league MVP as well as the Cy Young winner for the year. His stats led to him being compared favorably with Sandy Koufax and Bob Gibson.
I saw both of those men pitch in person, even paid for Standing Room Only to see Gibson pitch in the the Astrodome in 1968. They were both impressive. But the thing that keeps Kershaw separated from their stratosphere is his inability to win in the playoffs. Tonight was the last game of the season for Clayton and the Dodgers because the Cardinals beat him again to clinch the series and a trip to the LCS, just as they did last year. This game tonight was a chance for Kershaw to take the next step in chiseling out a place in history. Leading in the 7th, Kershaw gave up a 3 run home to Matt Adams and went on to lose the game. He did not put the opposing team away. When the money was on the line in their day, Koufax and Gibson were deadly during the post-season.
I hope Kershaw gets to a World Series and does well, but for now, I kinda feel sorry for him. A little.
