Pitcher stays in the game after painful blow

The Major League Baseball's $277 million man – Clayton Kershaw – showed just how tough he is after staying in the game following a painful line drive to the face.

Footage captured from the LA Dodgers spring training match against the Oakland A's shows pitcher Kershaw lining up a throw.

However, Kershaw was forced into evasive manoeuvres after batter Andy Parrino drove the ball straight back at last year's MVP.

But the 27-year-old wasn't quick enough and took a stinging blow to the side of the head.

The sight of their prized possession laying crumpled on the mound holding his face brought the Dodgers' dugout racing onto the field.

Kershaw reportedly signed a seven-year contract last year which will see him earn a $39 million average annual salary.

But after a couple of worrying moments, Kershaw was able to retake his place and finish off the innings.