Juan Lagares Announces Retirement from Baseball

Juan Lagares, a former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder, announced his retirement from professional baseball on February 19, 2023, via an Instagram post. The 36-year-old player expressed his gratitude towards the sport and acknowledged his current team, Águilas Cibaeñas, in the Dominican Winter League. Lagares played for the New York Mets from 2013 to 2020 and the Los Angeles Angels from 2021 to 2022, concluding his MLB career with a .250 batting average, .291 on-base percentage, and .360 slugging percentage over 850 games. He recorded 31 home runs, 217 runs batted in (RBIs), and 45 stolen bases throughout his career.

Newsweek

Lagares was particularly renowned for his defensive skills. After his rookie season in 2013, he received the National League Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award, leading all National League center fielders with 14 assists. In 2014, he topped the league in Defensive Runs Saved among center fielders, culminating in his receipt of the Gold Glove Award, the only one of his career. His defensive prowess allowed him to maintain a lengthy career despite a modest offensive output, as he never hit more than six home runs in a single season.

Newsweek

Following his last MLB game with the Angels, Lagares continued to play in the Dominican Winter League, participating in 90 games over the last four seasons with Águilas Cibaeñas. His commitment to the game remained evident as he transitioned from the major leagues to the winter league, where he continued to contribute to his team.

Newsweek

In his retirement announcement, Lagares expressed heartfelt thanks to the game of baseball and his supporters. He stated, “I am grateful for every moment I spent on the field and for the people who supported me throughout my journey.” His sentiments reflect a deep appreciation for his career and the experiences he gained over two decades in professional baseball.

Newsweek

While Lagares's defensive skills were widely praised, some critics noted that his offensive statistics did not match those of other players in his position. This discrepancy led to discussions about the value of defensive specialists in a league increasingly focused on offensive production.

Newsweek

As Lagares steps away from professional play, he may explore opportunities within baseball, potentially in coaching or mentoring roles, given his extensive experience and knowledge of the game. His retirement marks the end of a notable chapter in his life, but his legacy as a defensive standout will remain in the memories of fans and players alike.

Newsweek