'My story is far from over': Alex Kirilloff announces retirement from MLB

Alex Kirilloff is ready to begin a new chapter.

The Twins outfielder and first baseman announced on Thursday that he's decided to retire from Major League Baseball after nine years in the organization. He's been placed on the voluntary retired list and will explore new opportunities.

Kirilloff, 26, showed flashes on the field, slashing .248/.412/.721 with 40 doubles, five triples, 27 homers and 116 RBIs in 249 career games. But injuries had derailed a promising career. In four seasons with the big league club, Kirilloff never played more than 88 games. Throughout his time with the Twins, he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2017, he missed half the 2019 season with a wrist injury, which was a perennial problem from then onward. This season, Kirilloff played just 57 games before landing on the injured list due to a lower-back injury, which kept him on the sidelines the rest of the year.

Kirilloff said the injuries have taken a toll on him mentally and physically.

"During my career, I've encountered numerous injuries, which led me to search for new ways to overcome pain constantly," Kirilloff said in a statement. "These challenges have taken a toll on me mentally and physically; over time, I've realized my passion for playing the game has shifted. Baseball demands an 'all-in' approach, something I've brought to every season. However, I can no longer give it the total commitment it requires.

"I've always believed that playing this game requires 110% effort, and anything less would not do justice to my teammates, coaches, fans or the game itself."

The Twins selected Kirilloff with the No. 15 overall pick in the 2016 first-year player draft. Kirilloff was the Twins' Minor League Player of the Year in 2018 after hitting .348 between Low-A and High-A and driving in 101 runs. His debut came in the playoffs in 2020, where Kirilloff became the first player to record a postseason hit before a regular-season one.

“I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from my wife, family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, and fans throughout my career," Kirilloff said. "There are so many people to thank, and I will personally thank them. Your belief in me made all the difference, and I will be forever grateful. I’d like to thank the Minnesota Twins for giving me an opportunity. The things I was able to experience, I’ll be able to take with me the rest of my life. As I navigate the recovery process for my current lower back injury, I’m excited to focus more on my family and explore new opportunities. While this next chapter won’t take place on the field, my story is far from over.”