Kevin Kiermaier, an outfielder for the Blue Jays and four-time winner of the Gold Glove award, announced on Wednesday night that he plans to retire after this season.
Currently in his 11th season, with nine years spent at the Rays before joining Toronto, Kiermaier has a batting average of .191 with four home runs and 18 RBIs in 77 games this year. He signed a one-year contract worth $10.5 million with the Blue Jays last winter.
“I’m content with my decision,” Kiermaier shared after a 6-3 victory over Tampa Bay. “The season isn’t over yet, so we’ll see what’s ahead.”
Drafted by the Rays in the 31st round of the 2010 draft, Kiermaier earned Gold Gloves in center field in 2015, 2016, 2019, and 2023. He was also honored with the Platinum Glove Award for the best defensive player in the American League in 2015.
“He’s a true pro,” remarked Blue Jays manager John Schneider. “He’s been invaluable to this team. He’s arguably one of the finest center fielders of his time.”
Years of making diving catches and tough slides on artificial turf have taken a toll on the 34-year-old Kiermaier, who has played his entire home career on such surfaces.
“Playing on this turf for all these years has worn me down,” Kiermaier admitted, noting back and hip pain among the challenges he’s faced this season. “Getting ready every day has been tougher than ever.”
Kiermaier and his wife are expecting their third child in December, and he expressed eagerness to focus on being a full-time father after retiring from baseball.
Yet, Kiermaier also expressed interest in a potential coaching role part-time, if the right opportunity arises.
“I’d like to stay connected to the game in some way,” he said. “I often joke about being an ‘outfielder whisperer’ someday. Outfield defense is my specialty.”
