All Notable MLB Retirements in 2025-26 Season & Offseason

The most recent name added to this list was Matt Carpenter, who officially announced his retirement in mid-May. Carpenter played his last season in 2024 with the Cardinals, the same that drafted him out of TCU in 2009.

Carpenter manufactured a strong career as a infielder/utilityman. The 39-year-old was a three-time All-Star, hit a career-best 36 home runs in 2018, and played on the Cardinals’ NL pennant-winning team in 2013.

He spent much of his time playing in St. Louis with Lance Lynn, who retired in April. Lynn struck out 2,015 career batters, finished in the top-six of the Cy Young three times, and proved to be a workhouse for much of his career.

A former first-round pick, Lynn tossed over 120 innings in 10 of his 13 MLB season. And in the shortened 2020 campaign, Lynn led all pitchers in innings thrown (84).

Former Royal Mike Moustakas will join his 2015 World Series teammate Eric Hosmer, who retired two years ago, as the former will officially end his career in May. Moustakas will sign a one-day contract on May 31 and retire as a Royal, the team that drafted him in 2007.

While Moustakas had a big season in 2019, one that saw him blast 35 home runs, “Moose” had most of his best years with Kansas City. He hit 2022 home runs during Kansas City’s 2015 championship season, and a career-high 38 two years later.

Evan Longoria, meanwhile, will retire as a Ray. Two years after his final season with the Diamondbacks, Longoria will retire with the team that drafted him on June 7.

Out of all the names above, Longoria likely has the best shot of making it to the Hall of Fame. Longoria has a career Wins Above Replacement (WAR) higher than several players in Cooperstown, including Luis Aparicio and David Ortiz.

Over a decade ago, one could argue Longoria was on a glide path, as he was one of 10 players in MLB history with 25+ bWAR over the first four years of their career. Longoria put himself along the likes of Eddie Mathews, Wade Boggs, and Johnny Mize.

While his offensive numbers went south over the last few years of his career, Longoria finished with 342 career home runs, a Rookie of the Year award, a Silver Slugger, and three Gold Gloves.