A familiar face in the local Arizona baseball scene has called it a career in the MLB, Kole Calhoun.
Via an Instagram post, the former ASU and Diamondbacks right fielder announced that he has retired after 12 seasons.
“The day has come that I announce my retirement from Major League Baseball,” Calhoun said. “I know how extremely lucky I am to even be able to say that. Baseball was always my dream and to make that my reality fills me with gratitude. I have loved this game since I can remember, so making this announcement weighs heavy on my heart. This day comes for all players eventually and I can honestly say that I have given this game everything I have and I walk away with no regrets.”
Calhoun’s Career
Born in Tempe, Calhoun went to Buckeye Union High School growing up. In 2005, he and former MLB player Sammy Solis were both named the West Valley High School Baseball Co-Players of the Year.
Making a jump in his journey, he would then attend Yavapai Community College before transferring to the Sun Devils.
The 36-year-old would then get selected in the eighth round of the 2010 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Angels, the same franchise that he made a name for himself during his pro career.
Calhoun played eight seasons (2012-19) as an Angel while batting .249, driving home 451 RBIs and hitting 140 home runs. He won a Gold Glove in 2015 for being voted the best defensive fielder in his position.
Then on Dec. 30, 2019, Calhoun opted to sign a two-year contract with his hometown team, the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Back in the Valley, he had to deal with adversity as he contracted COVID-19 in 2020 before 2021 in which he tore a meniscus and suffered a split hamstring tendon in his left leg.
Despite these hurdles, Calhoun played 106 games for the D’Backs, hitting .230, 57 RBIs and 21 homers.
“Growing up a Diamondbacks fan, then getting to wear the uniform and play for my hometown team, brought this dream full circle and I am grateful for that,” Calhoun said.
He would then sign with the Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers and Cleveland Guardians until this announcement.
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