Veteran Major League Baseball relief pitcher David Robertson recently announced his retirement after 17 seasons.
The 40-year-old pitched in 881 career games, including 20 for the Philadelphia Phillies last year.
Robertson shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post.
“To all the incredible organizations, teammates, coaches, staff members, and fans who have been part of my baseball journey, I’ve decided it’s time for me to hang up my spikes and retire from the game I’ve loved for as long as I can remember,” David Robertson said. “Baseball has given me more than I ever dreamed possible over the last 19 seasons.
“From winning a World Series, to pitching in an All-Star game, to representing the United States and bringing home a World Baseball Classic Gold and an Olympic silver. I’ve had the privilege of playing alongside amazing teammates, learning from outstanding coaches, and being welcomed into organizations that felt like family.”
Robertson made his MLB debut with the New York Yankees in 2008 and helped New York win a World Series title the following year.
He made the All-Star game as a member of the Yankees in 2011 when he went 4-0 with a 1.08 ERA. He had a career-high 100 strikeouts in 66 2/3 innings pitched that year.
Robertson would go on to play for the White Sox, Phillies, Rays, Cubs, Mets, Marlins and Rangers.
As he mentioned in his post, he also represented the United States in the World Baseball Classic, as well as the Olympics.
Robertson finishes his MLB career with a 68-46 record and 179 saves.
“Saying goodbye isn’t easy, but I do so with deep gratitude for every opportunity, challenge, and memory,” David Robertson said. “I’ll forever be thankful for the game and for everyone who made this journey extraordinary.”