Former All-Star Merrifield retires after 9-year career

Whit Merrifield officially announced Tuesday that his MLB career is over.

Merrifield, 36, was a three-time All-Star during his nine-year run between 2016 and 2024. He led the majors in hits twice (2018, 2019) and the American League in stolen bases three times (2017, 2018, 2021) while playing for the Kansas City Royals.

"You should all know that I decided a while back to retire," Merrifield wrote in a statement put out by his agency, Warner Sports Management. "When it came down to it, it was an easy decision. Many factors played a role in my decision, but the main one was a six-pound, six-ounce gift from God my wife and I were blessed with in March of 2024.

"I was never talented enough to just show up and play. Baseball required my full focus and energy for me to compete at the level I wanted to, and I realize I can no longer give that effort. At this point in life, I'd much rather chase a toddler than chase sliders."

Merrifield suited up for the Royals for seven seasons, the Toronto Blue Jays for two, and spent his last campaign between the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves. He finished his career slashing .280/.328/.336 with 1,249 hits, 94 homers, 485 RBIs, and 218 steals over 1,147 games.

"Philly, I liked you way more than you liked me," Merrifield added. "Sorry I stunk for you."