Clayton Kershaw
MLB Future Hall of Fame Pitcher / 3x NL Cy Young Winner / 2014 NL MVP · Baseball - MLB
Los Angeles Dodgers
Era
Modern Era - circa 2015-present
Item Type
Official Major League Baseball (OMLB)
Condition
Excellent/Near Mint for the item; Excellent for the signature. The ball remains white with minor toning; the signature is bold with clear contrast and no significant bleeding.
Rarity
Common to Moderate. Kershaw is a consistent signer through paid sessions and limited public appearances, though demand remains exceptionally high.
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, likely authentic example of a modern Clayton Kershaw signature on a premium medium. Strong desirability for Dodgers collectors.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic; confidence level: 85% based on visual characteristics and common patterns of his modern shortened signature.
Signature Style
Abbreviated loop style signature, typical of his modern output. Features a prominent 'C' followed by a stylized 'K' and a downward trailing flourish.
Signature Characteristics
High-velocity flow with rhythmic loops. The 'C' is large and rounded; the 'K' is often reduced to a vertical stroke with a quick zigzag; no significant pen lifts are present in the main body.
Ink & Medium
Blue ballpoint pen on leather. The ink shows standard absorption for a cowhide baseball, with light natural fading typical of non-display-grade UV protection.
Item Description
Rawlings Official Major League Baseball featuring the signature on a side panel. Since it is noted as 1 of 3 signatures, this is likely a multi-signed team or award-themed ball.
Estimated Value
$100.00 - $175.00 (as part of a multi-signed ball). Value assumes authentication; single-signed Kershaw balls typically command $250-$400.
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with Kershaw's post-2015 signing habits. It lacks the more distinct 'Clayton' found in his rookie-era signatures, which is standard for current examples.
Authentication Tips
Look for the fluid, 'loopy' motion of the initials. Forgeries often struggle with the speed of his 'K' transition and the specific angle of the final descending stroke.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication). These are the industry standard for MLB autographs and provide the best ROI/security.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed. The ink saturation and stroke speed appear natural and consistent with genuine examples.
Provenance Notes
Since this is a multi-signed ball, identifying the other two signers is vital for provenance. Note if it was obtained at a Dodgers 'Fan Fest' or spring training.
Historical Context
Kershaw is the definitive pitcher of his generation, making any signed OMLB a foundational piece for Dodgers or pitching historians.
Market Trends
Stable to Appreciation. As a first-ballot Hall of Fame lock, his autograph values remain strong, especially on official Rawlings equipment.
Investment Potential
Excellent. Long-term value is bolstered by his statistical dominance and clean reputation; values will likely spike upon his retirement and HOF induction.
Similar Autographs
Sandy Koufax (his primary historical parallel), Mookie Betts, or Walker Buehler.
Display & Preservation
Keep in a UV-protected acrylic cube. Avoid fluorescent lighting to prevent the blue ink from 'ghosting' or fading into the leather.
Interesting Facts
Kershaw's signature has evolved from a legible full name early in his career to this current highly stylized, faster version to accommodate high demand.
Notes
Rawlings omlb 1 out of 3 signatures