Clayton Kershaw paused halfway up the dugout steps Saturday and bowed his head. The jog he was about to make to the mound at Dodger Stadium would be the first steps of what is likely the final chapter of his spectacular career.

The longtime Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher made his season debut on Saturday after missing nearly two months rehabbing from multiple surgeries. Taking the mound against the Los Angeles Angels, he struck out leadoff hitter Zach Neto with his trademark slider.

For Kershaw, this game was about more than just the result; it was an emotional moment: “I love being back out there, it’s a special thing.”