Kyle Gibson, a dependable starting pitcher, has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after 13 years. The 37-year-old shared his decision on “Serving it Up,” a podcast episode aired Thursday, stating he had made the choice a couple of weeks prior.
“I’m excited to be home and start a new chapter,” Gibson said. He spent time reaching out to his friends and family to share the news personally. He plans to write a message expressing gratitude to those who helped him throughout his career.
Gibson was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the first round of the 2009 MLB Draft after playing at the University of Missouri. His path wasn’t easy; an injury led to Tommy John surgery, delaying his debut until 2013.
He played seven seasons with the Twins, earning 9.8 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) and posting a record of 67 wins and 68 losses, with an ERA of 4.52. Although never the team’s ace, he was known for his durability and ability to keep the team competitive.
In 2019, he transitioned to the Texas Rangers, where he excelled, earning an All-Star selection in 2021. His performance included a 2.87 ERA in the first half before he was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies. Gibson spent time with several franchises, including the Orioles and the Cardinals, before ending his career with Baltimore this season.
Gibson faced challenges in his final MLB season, ending with a high ERA and being released on May 20. Despite signing a minor league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, he ultimately found no path back to the majors and decided to retire.
Now, he looks forward to spending more time with his family. “I enjoyed a vacation at the lake with my family and realized it was the right time for me,” he said.
Experts say retirements like Gibson’s highlight a shift in MLB, where many players are choosing to walk away sooner rather than stretch their careers. Data from a recent survey indicates that nearly 30% of professional athletes express a desire to retire by age 35, often to protect their health or pursue other interests.
The player’s journey offers insight into the challenges and triumphs many athletes face, underscoring the importance of knowing when to step back. As Gibson closes this chapter, he leaves behind a legacy as a resilient competitor and a beloved teammate.
For more on Gibson’s career and impact on the game, you can watch his announcement [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DU-VjG8xVg).
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