Flying under the radar nothing new for Clayton Kershaw

Posted Tuesday, Nov. 03, 2009 Comments   (0) Print Share Share Reprints
A

Have more to add? News tip? Tell us

By DREW DAVISON

  Special to the Star-Telegram

IRVING — He was the seventh overall pick in the 2006 MLB Draft. Two years later, at age 20, he became the youngest pitcher in the major leagues, debuting with the Los Angeles Dodgers on May 25, 2008. And, less than three weeks ago, he was starting Game 1 of the National League Championship Series for the Dodgers against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Still, Clayton Kershaw walks around virtually unnoticed, the latest example coming at Vernon Wells’ charity golf tournament at TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas on Monday. The funny thing, of course, is that Kershaw was one of the celebrities at the event.

"It’s just like it was in high school, not many people know what I do," said Kershaw, who went to Highland Park. "In LA, when the playoffs came around, people kind of figured it out. Other than that, it’s pretty low key. I’m just one of the guys."

At least for now, anyway. The Star-Telegram caught up with Kershaw at the event, which raised money for Wells’ Perfect 10 foundation helping homeless children in Arlington.

How important is it to help a fellow player out at his charity event?

When Vernon asked me to come out, I was all for it. I think this whole cause is awesome. What he’s trying to do and the mission and what they’re going for is unbelievable. I’ll do anything I can to help.

And how nice is it that the charity is in your hometown?

It’s great. Being in LA is one thing, but coming back home and helping Vernon is a cool deal.

Any plans for the off-season?

Actually, I’ll get back going here pretty soon. I’m just trying to get better, trying to make a difference on the team next season.

Why do you think this year was kind of your breakout season?

I don’t know if there was one thing about it, it was more a culmination of things. Getting the experience of being in the big leagues for a full year and trying to figure some stuff out, it just takes a little time. And, for me, it took about half a season to figure it out.

Finally, are you much of a golfer?

I’m a terrible golfer. If I finish a couple holes, I’ll be happy. We’ll see how it goes. I hope my team isn’t trying to win today.

Looking for comments?

Join the discussion

The Star-Telegram is pleased to provide this opportunity for you to share your thoughts and observations about news topics. We enjoy lively debate on the issues of the day, but we ask that you refrain from using profanity, racist or hate speech, engaging in personal attacks or name-calling, posting advertising or external links or including remarks that are off topic. To post comments, you must be a registered user of Star-Telegram.com. Your username will show along with the comments you post. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.