Some episodes in MLB history are worth remembering in light of the current playoffs we will be reviewing the disappointment from last year MVP decision and following performance for the title holder.
Clayton Kershaw passed a new barrier. The pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers became the first pitcher to be chosen MVP from the National League since 1968. The grand prize from baseball is usually reserved for hitters, for the work of the pitchers it is recognized by the Cy Young award, which for Kershaw, 26 is in the bag as well.
Surprising that the untouchable king of the mound remains reduced to a simple commoner in the playoff race. The pitcher, who has only lost three games in five months of regular season, was responsible for the two defeats of the Dodgers in the playoffs, something that already happened this last year. The architect of the success of the franchise was the headliner that fateful, eliminating his team for the past two seasons.
Kershaw was voted player of the year by 18 of the 30 journalists who decide the award. “I do not know if I’ll get used to the term MVP, but obviously it is a great honor,” he said. With him on the mound, the Dodgers have won 23 games and lost four. Without him, they have more defeats than victories. After a month apart because of physical problems-the very first time he was marked on the disabled list throughout his career, his domination could not be more categorical: no one conceded fewer runs (1.77 per nine innings), was the leader in strikeouts (239), despite having played a month less and enjoyed his first no-hitter -Pitching the entire game without allowing a hit.
Born in Dallas (Texas), Kershaw grew up with his mother after his parents separated when he was 10. Hailed as a great player even in high school, was selected by the Dodgers in the seventh pick in 2006.
Despite his personal prestige, his first big challenge was not reached until the playoffs last year. He failed. He lost both games against the St. Louis Cardinals in the Series Championship – by the before last round, he kept the tone in his first stake, but succumbed in the sixth game with an embarrassing 9-0.
