Today, former New York Yankees outfielder Melky Cabrera announced his retirement from Major League Baseball.
Melky Cabrera retires. 1,962 hits, 15 seasons. Nice career. H/t @hgomez27
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 14, 2022
Cabrera had originally signed with the Yankees as a 17-year-old in 2001 and joined the big league roster in a limited role in 2005. Cabrera would become a full-time starter the following season and served as an important piece during the 2009 World Series run. During his time with the Yankees, Melky became a fan favorite for his gritty style of play. Notably, he robbed Manny Ramirez of a home run in 2006 helping to preserve the Yankees lead.
After the Bronx
Unfortunately for Melky, 2009 would be his last year in a Yankees’ uniform. The team sent him to Atlanta where he lasted only one season. 2011 saw him breakout as a member of the Kansas City Royals and traded to the San Francisco Giants. With the Giants, Melky earned his only All-Star appearance and was leading the league in batting before missing the second half of 2012 with a positive PED suspension. Melky earned additional criticism for having a fake website created in an attempt to justify the positive test.
Melky spent the final eight seasons of his career as a member of the Blue Jays, White Sox, Royals, Indians and Pirates. During the 2021 season he played professionally in the Dominican Republic.
We at Bronx Pinstripes wish the Melk Man the best in his retirement.
