5 Reasons Why Alex Call, The Dodgers' Newest Outfielder, Earned RARE Praise From Clayton Kershaw

The Los Angeles Dodgers are never short on star power, but sometimes the most impactful additions are the ones who excel in a specific, crucial role. As of today, December 18, 2025, the newest player drawing significant attention from the clubhouse's most respected voice is outfielder Alex Call, whose recent acquisition has already earned him the ultimate seal of approval from future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw.

Kershaw’s endorsement is not given lightly, making his comments about the veteran outfielder a major talking point for the 2025 season. Call, who was recently acquired to bolster the team's outfield depth, has quickly impressed the Dodgers ace, highlighting a specific, invaluable skillset that addresses a key need for the perennial contenders.

Alex Call: Complete Player Biography and Profile

Alex Call, whose full name is Alexander Marvin Call, is a professional baseball outfielder known for his defensive versatility and ability to handle left-handed pitching. His journey to the Los Angeles Dodgers has been one of hard work and proving his value at every level.

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• Full Name: Alexander Marvin Call
• Born: September 27, 1994 (Currently 31 years old as of the 2025 season)
• Hometown: Burnsville, Minnesota
• College: Ball State University (Ball State Cardinals)
• MLB Draft: 2016, 3rd Round (86th overall pick) by the Chicago White Sox
• MLB Debut: July 11, 2022
• Primary Position: Outfielder (OF)
• Bats/Throws: Right/Right (R/R)
• Acquisition by Dodgers: Acquired via trade from the Washington Nationals (WSN) in the 2025 season for minor league prospects RHP Sean Paul Liñan and RHP Eriq Swan.
• Dodgers Jersey Number: 17 (as of April 16, 2025)

The Ultimate Seal of Approval: Kershaw’s Specific Praise for Alex Call

Clayton Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young Award winner and one of the most respected voices in Major League Baseball, rarely singles out a new teammate for immediate, high-level praise. His comments on Alex Call, however, were specific and glowing, providing insight into the team's strategy and Call's immediate value.

When discussing the team's newest addition, Kershaw told the Los Angeles Times, "I've faced Alex a few times. He's tough against lefties, a great defender. A good add, for sure." This short statement is packed with meaning, coming from a pitcher who has spent his entire career analyzing opposing hitters and understanding what makes a complete, winning roster. Kershaw's observation speaks directly to the qualities that make Alex Call a crucial piece of the Dodgers' 2025 puzzle.

The praise centers on three key areas: his history as a difficult opponent ("I've faced Alex a few times"), his specific hitting strength ("tough against lefties"), and his defensive prowess ("a great defender"). For a team with World Series aspirations, this kind of specialized, high-impact player is often the difference-maker, and Kershaw, as a veteran leader, clearly recognizes that value.

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5 Key Reasons Alex Call Impressed The Dodgers Ace

Call's ability to immediately earn the respect of a legend like Clayton Kershaw is a testament to his focused skillset. His value extends beyond general athleticism, filling specific, high-leverage roles that the Dodgers roster requires for a deep playoff run. Here are the five most significant reasons why Alex Call has become a standout addition.

1. Exceptional Platoon Option Against Left-Handed Pitching

The most emphasized point in Kershaw's quote was Call's strength against southpaws: "He's tough against lefties." This is a critical factor for the Dodgers, who often look to optimize matchups with platoon advantages. Call's career splits show a noticeable uptick in production when facing left-handed pitching, providing a reliable right-handed bat off the bench or in the starting lineup against opposing aces. This ability to neutralize a left-handed threat is an invaluable asset, especially in the postseason where high-leverage bullpen matchups are common. The *Dodgers platoon option* is now significantly stronger with Call's presence.

2. Elite Defensive Versatility and Range

Kershaw’s second point of praise—"a great defender"—highlights Call’s defensive capabilities. Call is known for his ability to play all three outfield positions, though he is often utilized in the corner spots. His speed and excellent instincts allow him to cover a significant amount of ground, providing an elite late-inning defensive replacement or a solid everyday glove when needed. In a large outfield like Dodger Stadium, having an outfielder with reliable range and a strong arm is a major boost to the pitching staff's confidence, including Kershaw's own.

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3. Veteran Experience and Professional Approach

Despite not being a perennial All-Star, Call brings the experience of a veteran of multiple MLB seasons. This professional maturity and understanding of the daily grind is something a team leader like Kershaw values immensely. A player who understands their role, prepares diligently, and executes consistently provides stability. Call's seamless transition into the clubhouse and his immediate impact on the field demonstrate the high baseball IQ that veterans appreciate.

4. Bolstering the Outfield Depth (The "Good Add")

The Dodgers' strategy often involves acquiring high-floor, versatile players to manage the grueling 162-game schedule and protect against injuries. Call's acquisition was a direct move to bolster the team's *Dodgers outfield depth 2025*. Kershaw calling him "a good add, for sure" confirms that the move was universally approved within the organization. He provides a reliable backup and a legitimate starting option, taking pressure off younger players and ensuring the team maintains a high level of play even when key starters need rest or are dealing with minor ailments.

5. A High-Motor, High-Effort Style of Play

While not explicitly mentioned in the quote, players who earn praise from a competitor like Kershaw often share a common trait: a high-effort, relentless style of play. Call is known for his hustle, running out every ground ball and making aggressive plays in the outfield. This relentless energy is infectious and raises the overall intensity of the team. For a veteran like Kershaw, who leads by example with his own work ethic, seeing a new teammate instantly adopt a high-motor approach is a significant factor in giving a public endorsement.

The Impact of the Alex Call Trade on the 2025 Dodgers Roster

The trade for Alex Call, which saw the Dodgers send two minor league pitchers to the Washington Nationals, was a classic low-risk, high-reward move designed to fine-tune the roster for a championship push.

Call’s role is primarily to provide a reliable, right-handed defensive presence and a potent bat against left-handed pitching. He immediately becomes a strong contender for a fourth or fifth outfielder spot, pushing the entire *Dodgers roster outlook* to be more competitive. His ability to play all three outfield positions makes him an ideal utility asset, allowing manager Dave Roberts flexibility in late-game situations for defensive upgrades or pinch-hitting opportunities.

The fact that Kershaw, who is in the twilight of his legendary career, took the time to publicly praise Call underscores the importance of this specific skillset. It signals to the fans and the rest of the league that the Dodgers are focused on acquiring players who fit defined needs, not just big names. The *Kershaw's praise for Alex Call* is a clear indication that Call is viewed as a high-value, impact player for the 2025 campaign, ready to contribute to the team's pursuit of another World Series title.