Los Angeles Dodgers Center Fielder Kevin Kiermaier did something on Wednesday night in The Bronx that professional athletes dream about when they are a child. He was able to retire from professional sports as a champion. Kiermaier announced his decision to retire following the 2024 season on July 24. A few days later, Kevin Kiermaier was dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers from the Toronto Blue Jays just before the 2024 MLB Trade Deadline.
Kiermaier played 116 games this season and hit .197 with 5 home runs and 26 RBI. While Kevin Kiermaier did not have a hit in LA’s postseason run, he provided a veteran presence to help a team that has struggled in the MLB Playoffs in past years. How will Kiermaier’s career be remembered?
Kevin Kiermaier Career Summary
What a way to cap off your career 🥹 pic.twitter.com/dcOnS0EK3O
— MLB (@MLB) October 31, 2024
Kiermaier will be remembered as one of the best fielders of his generation. He won four Gold Glove Awards(2015, 2016, 2019, and 2023). He also won the Platinum Glove in 2015. The Platinum Glove is given to the best defender in each league in a given season. Kevin Kiermaier began his career in 2013 with the Tampa Bay Rays. He spent the first 10 seasons of his career with the Rays before signing with the Toronto Blue Jays before the 2023 season. Kevin Kiermaier signed a one-year $10.5 million contract with the Blue Jays in December of 2023.
Kiermaier spoke highly of his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers. “I was only here for three months but these guys never quit. Never out of games, too much firepower through the lineup one through nine. I always say the best teams have the best players, the players who care the most and it’s hard to match up against these guys and how dedicated each and every player is showing up to the field each and every day.”
The fact that Kiermaier was able to end his career with the Dodgers in the World Series was poetic justice. He was a member of the Rays team that was bested by the Los Angeles Dodgers in six games in the 2020 World Series. He ends his career with a .246 batting average, 95 home runs, and 378 RBI. The best year of Kevin Kiermaier’s career came in 2016 with the Tampa Bay Rays. He finished 17th in AL MVP voting in addition to being the best fielder in the American League.
Final Thoughts
Kevin Kiermaier was able to end his career on a high note and left the game as a World Series champion. He is reportedly looking forward to retirement and coaching outfielders in the future regardless of the level. As one of the best fielding players over the last decade, he has much wisdom to pass on to future generations of baseball players. Kiermaier had a stellar Major League career and will be remembered for his defensive exploits.
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