Royals' Legend Makes Major Personal Announcement on Tuesday

In a statement following his decision to retire, Merrifield said, "I was so privileged and blessed to have played in the cities I played in... My only baseball regret was never being able to help bring a world championship to any one of the cities I played for."

"I loved all the moments. All the highs and even all the lows. I'm grateful for the way this game molded me... What a ride. Thanks for everything."

Merrifield played for four different teams in his nine-year career, but he was his best for the Kansas City Royals, getting drafted in the 9th round of the 2010 MLB Draft and playing as multi-tool threat for them from 2016 to 2022.

Throughout his career, Merrifield was elected to three All-Star games in 2019, 2021, and 2023, won three AL stolen base titles in 2017, 2018, and 2021, and led the major leagues in hits in 2018 and 2019.

The 36-year-old veteran played in many different positions throughout his career, including at second base as well as all throughout the outfield.

Although he wasn't able to win a World Series in the MLB, Merrifield was able to win a College World Series title with South Carolina in 2010.

In 1,147 games played in the major leagues, Merrifield's career statistics include a .280 BA, .328 OBP, .413 SLG, and a .741 OPS while hitting 94 home runs, 256 doubles, and 485 RBI.