In a heartfelt announcement on the show Foul Territory, former MLB standout Kevin Pillar revealed his retirement from professional baseball. At 36, Pillar, who recently played for the Texas Rangers, is closing the chapter on a career that began in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

From Underdog to All-Star: The Pillar Story

Drafted in the 32nd round of the 2011 MLB Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays, Pillar's journey to the big leagues seemed improbable from the start. Yet, with determination and hard work, he transformed into one of baseball’s most recognized outfielders over the past decade.

Pillar's most notable attribute was his extraordinary defensive skills. Earning the affectionate nickname "Superman," he dazzled fans with spectacular, gravity-defying catches. His breakout year in 2015 was a turning point—playing 159 games for the Jays, he boasted a batting average of .278, paired with strong base-stealing abilities and stellar defensive metrics.

A Career of Highlights and Challenges

Pillar became a fan favorite for his role in leading the Blue Jays to the postseason for the first time since 1993, contributing to the unforgettable playoff moment known as José Bautista's 'bat flip' game. While his offensive numbers didn't consistently match his stellar defense—never again stealing more than 15 bases or achieving an above-average wRC+—he remained a valuable asset.

Between 2016 and 2018, he played 442 games for Toronto, maintaining a respectable performance that continued to see him through his career even as he entered his 30s.

The Transition to Journeyman

As the Jays shifted gears towards rebuilding, Pillar was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 2019, marking the start of a new phase in his career as a journeyman player. Over the next few years, he suited up for the Red Sox, Rockies, Mets, Dodgers, Braves, White Sox, Angels, and most recently, the Rangers.

Despite the move to different teams and the natural decline that comes with age, he consistently delivered solid performances. However, after a challenging stint with the Rangers where he hit just .209 in 20 games, Pillar has decided that retirement is the next step.

An Unforgettable Legacy

Pillar's achievements are nothing short of remarkable. An underdog from the very start, he played a total of 1,234 games over his 13-year MLB tenure, amassing 1,053 hits and 114 home runs. His cumulative contributions include an impressive 10.8 WAR from FanGraphs and 16.1 from Baseball Reference, along with earnings of about $25 million.

As he hangs up his spikes, the baseball community celebrates Kevin Pillar's inspiring journey from obscurity to becoming a fan favorite. Congratulations, Kevin—your legacy will surely be remembered!