Veteran utility player Ehire Adrianza has announced his retirement after 12 seasons in Major League Baseball. The 35-year-old shared the news on his Instagram, expressing gratitude to all the individuals who played a role in his success.
“This journey has been incredibly challenging, filled with ups and downs, but every step along the way has been a blessing that I cherish immensely,” Adrianza wrote.
“Since my childhood, I dreamed of the possibility of winning a World Series, a goal that once seemed so distant and almost unattainable. However, thanks to my effort, dedication, and the unwavering support of each one of you, that dream has become a reality.
I still find it hard to believe that I have had the honor of playing more than a decade in the Major Leagues. I never imagined I would achieve so much, and it’s astonishing to reflect on this experience.”
Over the course of his career, Adrianza played for six different organizations, making appearances in 624 MLB games with the Giants, Twins, Nationals, Braves, and Angels from 2013 to 2024.
He was a key contributor to two World Series-winning teams: the San Francisco Giants in 2014 and the Atlanta Braves in 2021, where he recorded 10 pinch-hit at-bats during the Braves’ postseason run.
With a career line of .237/.307/.352 in 1,578 plate appearances, Adrianza’s versatility was his defining trait, allowing him to remain on big league rosters throughout his career.
He played at least 16 games at six different positions, including all four infield spots and both corner outfield positions, and even had brief appearances as a center fielder and pitcher.
His defensive metrics, such as Outs Above Average and UZR/150, reflected his strong performance at shortstop and third base, his most frequently played positions.
Adrianza’s role was typically that of a part-time or bench player, with his opportunities for more regular play usually arising due to injuries. His 2018 season with Minnesota, in which he appeared in 114 games, marked his career high, followed by 109 games with the Braves in 2021.
That year, his ability to provide depth off the bench and make occasional spot starts was crucial to an Atlanta team that faced significant injuries but still captured the championship.
At MLB Trade Rumors, we congratulate Adrianza on a successful career and wish him all the best as he embarks on the next chapter of his life.
