Kevin Kiermaier Announces Retirement Plans
TORONTO (AP) — Blue Jays outfielder and four-time Gold Glove Award winner Kevin Kiermaier revealed on Wednesday night that he intends to retire at the conclusion of the season. Kiermaier, currently in his 11th season and second with Toronto after playing nine years with the Rays, made the announcement following a 6-3 victory over Tampa Bay. Having signed a one-year, $10.5 million contract with the Blue Jays last winter, Kiermaier expressed contentment with his decision to retire, mentioning that he feels at peace with the choice he has made.
Kiermaier’s Accomplishments and Impact
The 34-year-old Kiermaier was drafted by the Rays in the 31st round of the 2010 draft and has been awarded the center field Gold Glove four times, in 2015, 2016, 2019, and 2023. Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised Kiermaier as “the ultimate pro” and emphasized his significance to the team, noting him as one of the premier center fielders of his generation. Despite enduring injuries throughout his career, including back and hip pain exacerbated by playing on artificial turf, Kiermaier continued to deliver stellar performances on the field.
Life After Baseball
As Kiermaier prepares to retire, he looks forward to welcoming his third child with his wife in December. Eager to embrace the role of a stay-at-home dad in retirement, Kiermaier expressed interest in potentially pursuing a part-time coaching position in the future, particularly focusing on outfield defense, an area he excelled in throughout his career. While reflecting on his time in baseball, Kiermaier expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences the sport has afforded him, setting the stage for a new chapter in his life beyond the field.
