Kevin Pillar retires from baseball, bringing an end to a remarkable journey that began with the Toronto Blue Jays and included unforgettable moments patrolling centre field. The announcement, made Wednesday on Foul Territory, signals the retirement of a player celebrated for his defensive flair and significant role in the team’s playoff runs.
Pillar’s Defensive Brilliance Shaped His Reputation
Known as “Superman” among fans thanks to his acrobatic catches, Pillar became a fixture in centre field at Rogers Centre from 2013 to 2019. His athletic prowess, especially in robbing home runs at the wall and making highlight-reel grabs, drew admiration from teammates and spectators alike, cementing his status as one of Toronto’s most exciting outfielders.
Consistent Performance at the Plate Complemented Defensive Skills
During his seven seasons with the Blue Jays, Pillar posted a .692 OPS, hit 55 home runs, drove in 231 runs, and stole 69 bases. The West Hills, California native not only excelled defensively but also contributed crucial offensive output, helping to power Toronto’s 2015 and 2016 playoff teams. Emerging as a 32nd-round draft pick in 2011, he defied expectations to become Toronto’s everyday centre fielder, demonstrating perseverance and talent throughout his tenure.
Transitions Across Multiple MLB Teams
After his time in Toronto, Pillar was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 2019, then proceeded to play for several other MLB teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Colorado Rockies, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves. His journey took him across cities and leagues, where he adapted to various roles and contributed as both a steady presence and a clubhouse veteran.
Recent Career Highlights and Final Season Moves
In the 2024 season, Pillar began with the Chicago White Sox, appearing in 17 games before his release. He soon signed with the Los Angeles Angels, where he experienced a late-career resurgence. Over 83 games with the Angels, Pillar recorded a .236 batting average, hit seven homers, collected 41 RBIs, and stole ten bases, showing flashes of his prime performance. In February, he joined the Texas Rangers on a minor-league contract, played 20 games with them, and was released on May 31.
Pillar Reflects on Retirement Decisions
As he shared during his retirement announcement,
“I realized that as great as it is to be successful in the game and to have these highs and to hit these home runs, the things that — striking out, or not being successful, or going oh-for-your-last-10 — those things always outweighed the success I had in the game,”
—Kevin Pillar, Outfielder
He further noted,
“I took the failure I had in the game way harder than I enjoyed the success and I don’t have to deal with the failure anymore, so I’m pretty happy. I wake up every morning just excited to be dad.”
—Kevin Pillar, Outfielder
Reflecting on the definitive nature of his decision, Pillar told Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi last year,
“When I say it’s over, it’s over, there’s no coming back.”
—Kevin Pillar, Outfielder
A Lasting Legacy with the Blue Jays and Beyond
With his retirement, Kevin Pillar leaves behind a legacy of spectacular outfield defense, clutch playoff performances, and resilience throughout a multi-team career. For Toronto Blue Jays fans and players across the league, Pillar’s blend of athletic ability and steadfast dedication set a standard for excellence and perseverance on the field, ensuring his “Superman” nickname endures in baseball memory.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Kevin Pillar wear a mask?
A. Pillar explained that he planned to use a protective mask while playing in the field and running the bases for a few weeks after coming back. At first, he wore a clear mask, but later changed to a black one made with face-scanning technology, which helped him see better.
Q. How did the Angels get Kevin Pillar?
A. On April 30, 2024, the Los Angeles Angels gave Pillar a major league contract after Mike Trout got hurt.
This signing happened to help the team after their star player was injured.
Q. How did the angels acquire Kevin Pillar?
A. Last week, the White Sox removed Pillar from their team roster after they brought up outfielder Tommy Pham for a series against the Rays. Pillar chose to become a free agent and later signed with the Angels. The Angels made this move after hearing that All-Star outfielder Mike Trout needed knee surgery because of a torn meniscus.