I don't think you could ever choose against Kershaw. Simply put, he is the best pitcher of this generation, perhaps even in the past quarter century. Yes, his struggles in the postseason are the only thing holding him back from absolute greatness. But he's already great. I'd take him in a heartbeat.
Think of it, who is better than Kershaw in the past 25 years?
Randy Johnson?
Perhaps too exclusive of a strike out specialist. He had some rough years. And if Kershaw can pitch for as long as Johnson did, he'll break every record there is.
Roger Clemens?
Juicer.
Pedro Martinez?
His brilliance was too short lived.
Greg Maddux?
I love Maddux, but really, would you take Maddux over Kershaw, when it's all said and done? Given that Kershaw stays healthy?
Here's a great article that I feel backs my position.
You have very good points. Kershaw is a heck of a picther, Max too.