Kevin Pillar announces MLB retirement after a lengthy career spanning 13 seasons marked by notable achievements and persistent injuries. The former outfielder concluded his professional baseball journey following a difficult 2023 season that included time with the Texas Rangers and a series of physical setbacks.
The Final Season and Decision to Retire
Pillar began the 2023 season on a Minor League contract with the Texas Rangers after making their Opening Day roster. He appeared in 20 games for the Rangers before being designated for assignment on May 25 and released shortly after clearing waivers. About a month after his release, Pillar confirmed his retirement during an interview on Foul Territory, emphasizing his certainty about ending his playing career.
“I guess I can officially say that I’m done playing. I wanted to be 100% sure, because of things I went through last year, I kind of said it was going to be my last year, and I got into the offseason and my mindset kind of changed. I talked to a lot of guys that are no longer playing anymore, and they said it’s near-impossible to kind of retire and come back. So I wanted to make sure that I was really done playing.” —Kevin Pillar
Injury Struggles in Recent Years
Pillar’s final years were marred by injuries that severely limited his playing time. In 2022, while part of the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, he spent most of the season in the Minor Leagues with the Triple-A Oklahoma City team, where he posted impressive hitting numbers including a .315 batting average over 127 at-bats. However, after only four Major League games that year, he sustained a fractured left shoulder sliding into third base against the Pittsburgh Pirates, which required surgery.
He returned to action late in the season, participating in six rehab games across the Minor League affiliates. In 2023, lower back inflammation further hindered his performance, causing him to miss 11 games with Texas before his eventual release. These physical challenges influenced his decision to step away from the game.
Overview of Kevin Pillar’s Major League Career
Born in West Hills, California, Kevin Pillar grew up supporting the Los Angeles Dodgers. He attended California State University, Dominguez Hills, where he concluded his college career holding the school’s all-time batting average record at .367. Pillar’s professional career began when the Toronto Blue Jays selected him in the 32nd round of the 2011 MLB Draft, 979th overall.
He spent the initial seven seasons of his Major League career with the Blue Jays and over the next six years played for a total of ten different MLB teams. Known for his strong defensive skills and versatility in the outfield, Pillar established himself as a reliable presence on multiple rosters throughout his career.
Reflecting on Pillar’s Legacy and What Lies Ahead
Kevin Pillar’s departure from professional baseball closes the chapter on a resilient career marked by memorable defensive plays and steady offensive production, despite frequent injuries. His thoughtful decision to retire, after careful consideration and consultations with former players, highlights the challenges athletes face when transitioning out of competitive sports.
As Pillar moves on from playing, his journey remains an example of perseverance and dedication in Major League Baseball. Fans and analysts alike will watch to see whether he stays connected to the game in new roles, such as coaching or broadcasting, continuing to contribute his knowledge and passion off the field.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Kevin Pillar wear a mask?
A. Pillar mentioned he would use a protective mask while playing on the field and running bases for a few weeks after his return. At first, he wore a clear mask, but later switched to a black one made with face-scanning software, which helped him see better.
Q. How did the Angels get Kevin Pillar?
A. On April 30, 2024, Pillar agreed to a major league contract with the Los Angeles Angels after Mike Trout was injured.