Nelson Cruz says he’s retiring after 19 MLB seasons, 464 home runs

Seven-time All-Star Nelson Cruz, renowned for his 464 career home runs, has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after an impressive 19-season career. The news came during his appearance on “The Adam Jones Podcast.”

In an interview with Jones, Cruz, who is 43 years old, revealed that he will be participating in the Dominican Professional Baseball League this winter as part of his farewell tour.

“So this marks the end of Nelson Cruz’s career, right?” asked Jones.

Cruz replied, “I believe so, yes.”

Earlier this year, Cruz was released by the San Diego Padres on July 10, just six months after signing a one-year, $1 million contract. During the 2023 season, he played 49 games, primarily as a designated hitter, hitting .245 with 5 home runs and 23 RBIs.

Throughout his career, Cruz has maintained an impressive batting average of .274 and accumulated 1,325 RBIs while representing eight different teams. He has been honored with the Silver Slugger Award four times and was named the American League Championship Series MVP in 2011 as a member of the Texas Rangers.

Cruz made his MLB debut with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2005 and went on to play eight seasons with the Texas Rangers. He has also played for the Orioles, Mariners, Twins, Rays, Nationals, and Padres.

In 2013, Cruz was one of 13 players banned by Major League Baseball due to their connection with the Biogenesis of America clinic in Florida, which was involved in the distribution of performance-enhancing drugs. Cruz faced a 50-game suspension as a result.