Wil Myers, a former Rookie of the Year and All-Star, has effectively ended his 11-year Major League Baseball career, although he refrains from using the term “officially retired.” Drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2009, Myers never played for them in the majors. His path to the big leagues led him to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he debuted in 2013 at the age of 22. That year, Myers showcased his potential, earning the American League Rookie of the Year award with an impressive .293 batting average, .354 on-base percentage, .478 slugging percentage, and a 131 OPS+. This auspicious start marked the beginning of a journey that would see him traverse three different organizations, leaving a distinct mark on each.
The next chapter of Myers’ career unfolded in San Diego, following an offseason trade in 2014. He became a fixture in the Padres lineup for the following eight seasons, playing in 888 games. His tenure with the Padres was punctuated by a standout performance in 2016. That year, Myers achieved a career-high 3.5 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) while hitting .259/.336/.461 with 28 home runs in 157 games. This season solidified his presence as a key contributor to the Padres’ offense and marked a peak in his overall performance. While subsequent seasons saw fluctuations in his output, Myers remained a consistent presence in the Padres’ roster, contributing both on the field and in the clubhouse.
The final stop in Myers’ MLB journey took him to the Cincinnati Reds in 2023. While his time in Cincinnati was brief, appearing in only 37 games and hitting three home runs, it marked the closing chapter of his professional playing career. It was during his time with the Reds, while battling shoulder injuries, that the thought of retirement began to crystallize in Myers’ mind. The physical challenges he faced contributed to his decision to step away from the game, recognizing the toll it was taking on his body.
Myers’ career, although not officially declared over by him, reflects a journey filled with both triumphs and challenges. From his Rookie of the Year accolade to his productive years in San Diego, Myers demonstrated his talent and resilience. While he never quite replicated the heights of his 2013 and 2016 seasons, he remained a valuable player throughout his career. His ability to play multiple positions added to his versatility and made him a sought-after asset for various teams. The latter part of his career, however, was hampered by injuries, ultimately leading to his decision to transition away from professional play.
Reflecting on his career, Myers expresses gratitude and satisfaction, emphasizing the positive relationships forged and the experiences gained. He views his baseball journey as a success, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the sport and expressing contentment with the path he carved. While his playing days have come to an end, Myers looks forward to the next chapter of his life, carrying with him the valuable lessons learned and the memories created throughout his time in Major League Baseball.
The transition from professional baseball to a new phase of life is a significant step for any athlete. For Myers, it represents an opportunity to explore new passions, pursue different interests, and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. His decision, while tinged with a touch of ambiguity in his refusal to formally declare retirement, underscores his desire to move forward with a sense of closure and fulfillment. While his active playing career may be over, his connection to baseball and the lessons he learned will undoubtedly continue to shape his future endeavors.
