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Former World Series hero had great way of announcing his retirement

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Oct 6, 2025 8:36 AM ET

Former Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Brett Phillips was full of gratitude when he announced his retirement from the game of baseball.

Phillips announced Sunday that he was calling it a career. The seven-year MLB veteran shared the news via a four-minute video posted on social media.

In the clip, Phillips thanked every single person who had a hand in his baseball journey. He had dozens of names listed down on a whiteboard behind him as he spoke. The lengthy list includes his family, his agent, the baseball scouts who first saw talent in him, as well as every manager and front office executive who gave him a shot.

Phillips expressed his gratitude while wearing a “Baseball is Fun” T-shirt.

To my teammates, as I look back on my career I can say with certainty that you all made my time in professional baseball the most fun and I appreciate each and every one of you for how you treated and welcomed me into this game, thank you! pic.twitter.com/g7yUCgWofk
— Maverick Phillips (@Brett_Phillips8) October 6, 2025

Phillips had quite an eventful MLB journey despite a career batting average below the Mendoza Line. He is best known for his walk-off hit to help the Rays win Game 4 of the 2020 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

What made the moment even more memorable was how Phillips celebrated the play. With Rays players chasing after him, Phillips ran across the outfield with his arms extended out like he was a bird (or a Ray?) trying to take flight.

Brett Phillips announced his retirement from baseball on Instagram. pic.twitter.com/PzcOddMUc3
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 6, 2025

Phillips played for five different teams across his seven-year career. He last played for the Los Angeles Angels in the 2023 season. He made headlines last season for his comeback attempt as a pitcher.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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