Outfielder Thanks Dodgers For Helping Him Retire as World Series Champion
Before he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Kevin Kiermaier announced he was retiring from MLB after the 2024 season. Days after he announced his plans to retire following the season, Kiermaier was traded from the Toronto Blue Jays to the Dodgers on July 30.
“When you know, you know, and I know it’s time,” Kiermaier said of his decision to retire in July. “Playing on this turf all these years, it’s beaten me up, but I’m so happy with how everything has played out, and it’s not done yet. I don’t know what’s going to happen with me with the state of our team in the next week, but if I’m on a roster, I’m going to give it all like I always do.”
“I’m more than happy,” Kiermaier said at the time. “I’m at peace with my decision. The year is not over yet. Who knows what’s left in store?”
The trade to the Dodgers culminated in Kiermaier winning the World Series for the first time in his career, and getting the opportunity to go out on top. The other time Kiermaier came close to winning the World Series was in 2020 with the Tampa Bay Rays, but the Rays lost to the Dodgers.
The Dodgers left Kiermaier off of the World Series, but Kiermaier did get to play during the National League Championship Series. Even so, he was grateful for the opportunity to take part in the Dodgers’ World Series victory.
“This is everything I’ve worked for my entire life,” Kiermaier told Olivia Garvey of NBC Sports. “I was only here for three months, but these guys never quit. The best teams have the best players, the players that care the most.”
Kiermaier later took to social media on Friday as the Dodgers celebrated their victory with a parade through downtown Los Angeles, sharing a message as he heads into retirement.
“What a time to be alive! Ending my career out as WORLD SERIES CHAMPS! All credit goes to my amazing teammates! Thank you Dodgers for the best opportunity i could ever hope for! Champs forever!”
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
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