Whit Merrifield, a three-time MLB All-Star who final performed for the Atlanta Braves in 2024, introduced his retirement Tuesday after 9 years within the huge leagues.
In a press release launched by way of his company, Warner Sports activities Administration, Merrifield cited his household — particularly a daughter born in March 2024 — as a cause to step away.
“I used to be by no means gifted sufficient to only present up and play,” Merrifield stated. “Baseball required my full focus and vitality for me to compete on the stage I wished to, and I understand I can now not give that effort.
“At this level in life, I would a lot fairly chase round a toddler than chase sliders.”
The 36-year-old infielder, a ninth-round collection of the Kansas Metropolis Royals in 2010, spent greater than six seasons within the minor leagues earlier than making his main league debut at age 27 in 2016. Merrifield ends his profession with 1,249 hits — together with 94 dwelling runs and 256 doubles — and a .280 batting common in 1,147 video games.
He led the American League in stolen bases thrice, ending his profession with 218 swipes.
“Since I’ve now had a while away from the sport, I’ve had an opportunity to replicate on my particular person profession for the primary time in my life,” Merrifield stated. “I am pleased with myself. The toughness I developed and the issues I used to be capable of accomplish, no person outdoors of my camp thought doable.”
Merrifield rapidly established himself as a premier participant for Kansas Metropolis after his call-up, incomes MVP votes in 2018 after batting a career-best .304. He adopted that up in 2019 with a .302 season that was highlighted by his first All-Star nod. He added one other All-Star choice in 2021 and a 3rd in 2023 as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays.
Merrifield signed with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024 however was launched after batting .199 in 53 video games. He completed the 12 months with the Braves, with whom he hit .248.
“I cherished all of the moments,” Merrifield stated. “All of the highs and even all of the lows. I am grateful for the way in which this sport molded me. I can not wait to inform my story to my daughter in the future.”
–Discipline Degree Media
