Nelson Cruz Announces Retirement After 19 Seasons in Major League Baseball
Nov 2, 2023 – Nelson Cruz, a seven-time All-Star and esteemed baseball player with 464 career home runs, has announced his retirement after 19 seasons in Major League Baseball. The 43-year-old made the revelation during an appearance on “The Adam Jones Podcast.”
During the podcast, Cruz informed host Adam Jones that he would be participating in the Dominican Professional Baseball League this winter, effectively marking the beginning of his farewell tour. When asked if this would be the last time we see him on the field, Cruz replied, “I think so, yeah.”
Cruz’s retirement comes after being released by the San Diego Padres on July 10. Despite signing a one-year, $1 million contract, Cruz’s performance this season was not up to par. In 49 games, mostly as a designated hitter, he had a batting average of .245 with 5 home runs and 23 RBIs.
Throughout his career, Cruz has played for eight teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners, Minnesota Twins, Tampa Bay Rays, Washington Nationals, and the San Diego Padres. He is a lifetime .274 hitter with 1,325 RBIs.
Cruz’s accomplishments extend beyond individual statistics. He is a four-time recipient of the Silver Slugger Award and was named the 2011 American League Championship Series MVP while playing for the Texas Rangers.
However, Cruz’s career has not been without controversy. In 2013, he was one of 13 players banned by Major League Baseball due to their involvement with Biogenesis of America, a Florida clinic accused of providing performing-enhancing drugs. Cruz received a 50-game suspension as a result.
As the news of Nelson Cruz’s retirement spreads, fans and fellow players alike will undoubtedly celebrate his contributions to the sport. His powerful presence on the field and remarkable home run record will leave a lasting legacy in Major League Baseball.