Veteran first baseman Eric Hosmer announced his retirement on Wednesday after 13 major league seasons and a 2015 World Series title to his name.
Despite opportunities on the table to play in 2024, the 34-year-old Hosmer elected to hang it up. He announced his decision on the first episode of his new podcast, the Diggin’ Deep Podcast.
“I just didn’t know if my body was ready for all that, didn’t know mentally if I was ready to go back,” Hosmer said on Wednesday. “And if you’re not ready at 110% to compete in this league, then it’s not going to work out. These roster spots are so valuable and I really do understand the value of a roster spot in the big leagues,” he added.
First episode of Diggin’ Deep is live! Click the link below to check it out…https://t.co/EjfJjgb5aJ pic.twitter.com/tCDQyR4MK6
— Eric Hosmer (@TheRealHos305) February 21, 2024
After being released by the Chicago Cubs last May, Hosmer sat out the rest of the season and spent time with his wife, Kacie, and his young son. The pull of family and inability to for him to fully commit to another major league season were significant factors in his decision.
“It’s something that I’ve thought well and long about, had a lot of discussions with Kase and my family about, and ultimately decided that this is the best route for me to take and I’m still going to be involved in the game and covering the game. So I’m just excited for this new chapter,” Hosmer said.
Over Hosmer’s 13 year career, he played for the Kansas City Royals, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. He hit .276 across his career with 198 home runs and 893 RBI. He won four Gold Gloves and made the 2016 American League All-Star team to go along with his 2015 World Series title in Kansas City.
