Bizarre reason retiring MLB star Whit Merrifield apologizes to one of his old teams
By JAKE FENNER
Published: 18:45 EDT, 24 June 2025 | Updated: 18:45 EDT, 24 June 2025
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After spending nine years in the major leagues, former Kansas City Royals infielder Whit Merrifield has announced his retirement.
Merrifield last played in the 2024 season with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves - and he wasn't particularly successful in The City of Brotherly Love.
In his retirement announcement, Merrifield took time to apologize to the Phillies fans for his struggles.
'You all should know that I decided a while back to retire,' Merrifield began his announcement. 'When it came down to it, it was an easy decision.
'Many factors played a role in my decision, but the main one was a 6 pound 6 ounce gift from God my wife and I were blessed with in March of 2024.
'I was never talented enough to just show up and play. Baseball required my full focus and energy for me to compete at the level I wanted to, and I realize I can no longer give that effort. At this point in lie, I'd much rather chase around a toddler than chase sliders.'
A retiring Whit Merrifield apologized to Phillies fans for his poor performance for them in 2024
Merrifield is a three-time stolen base leader best known for his time with the Royals
Merrifield then went on to talk about his career and the things he missed before thanking the four teams he played for in his nine MLB seasons.
'I was so privileged and blessed to have played in the cities I played in,' Merrifield wrote.
'KC you became a second home to my family and I. Nothing compares to a first love. Toronto, playing for an entire country was an honour I'll never forget.'
And then he arrived at the Phillies: 'Philly, I liked you way more than you liked me. Sorry I stunk for you.'
Merrifield then spoke about playing for his favorite team from growing up: 'Atlanta, it was the joy of a lifetime to play and end my career for my childhood team.
Merrifield also added: 'My only baseball regret was never being able to help bring a world championship to any one of the cities I played for.'
To say that he 'stunk' in Philadelphia would be accurate. He slashed .199/.277./.295 and struck out 19 times across 53 games.
Merrifield finished his career with three All-Star selections and having led the American League in stolen bases three times.
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