“That’s a big loss” – Fans react as 5x All-Star Michael Brantley RETIRES from MLB

Michael Brantley retires from MLB as a 5-time All-Star and a World Series winner.

“That’s a big loss” – Fans react as 5x All-Star Michael Brantley RETIRES from MLB

Michael Brantley (Pic Credit: Associated Press)

In a major turn of events, 5-time MLB All-Star Michael Brantley on Friday announced his retirement. The veteran hitter called it a day on his career after spending 15 seasons in the majors and making countless memories.

The news of his retirement was first reported by Jon Morosi who claimed Brantley now wanted to spend some time with his family. The 36-year-old was last seen playing in October with the Houston Astros.

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In his statement to Jon Morosi, Brantley said:

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I have young kids, and now it’s time to be a dad, first and foremost... It’s time for me to be home 24/7, watch my kids grow up, and not miss important milestones.
Michael Brantley on his retirement as per MLB.com.

The veteran outfielder retires from the game after appearing for just two teams. While he was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2008, he was unable to make the first team and was traded away to the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians).

Brantley would go on to spend 10 seasons in Cleveland and became an internal member of the squad. He was a part of the Indians’ 2016 World Series squad that fell just short of the hurdle and played some important part in the postseason runs. He would later join the Astros where he once again thrived.

Social media reactions to Michael Brantley’s retirement

There comes a time in the career of every player when they have to make the hard choice and decide their future. Plagued with injuries, Michael Brantley has now called time on his illustrious career and decided to step away from the sport he loved.

In his 15-year career, he was able to claim his hands on the big Commissioner’s trophy as he won the World Series with the Houston Astros in 2022. Nicknamed “Dr. Smooth“, Brantley was smooth with his swing and fielding and won the Silver Slugger Award in 2014.

Michael Brantley
Michael Brantley (Pic Credit: Associated Press)

He would eventually finish with 129 home runs and 729 RBIs while batting at a good average of .298. Fans on social media were quick to pay their respects and tributes to him. One fan wrote, “That’s a big loss” while being distraught by the news of Brantley retiring.

Sharing a wide spectrum of reactions online, check out what the fans had to say about this incident on X below:

The American international now looks forward to coaching his sons and starting a new chapter in his life. While his story as a player might have ended, there could be chances in the future when fans might get a glimpse of him as a trainer or coach.

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