MLB

Minnesota Twins’ Alex Kirilloff Announces Retirement From Baseball At Age 26 Due To Injuries

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By
James Lloyd
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James Lloyd Sports Editor

James is a sports writer specialising in football news, betting, and statistics. He also writes about various other sports, including tennis, boxing, and MMA. His work has been featured on multiple online sports platforms, including Sports Lens and Breaking The Lines. James holds a Master's degree in Sport & Exercise Physiology and currently works as a Video Scout for 360 Scouting.

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Published5 hours ago on October 31, 2024

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Alex Kirilloff Minnesota Twins

Alex Kirilloff, a former top prospect for the Minnesota Twins, has announced his retirement from baseball at the age of 26.

The decision comes after a career plagued by injuries that significantly hindered his potential.

Kirilloff, the 15th overall pick in the 2016 MLB Draft, made his major league debut in 2021. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, his career was repeatedly derailed by injuries, including Tommy John surgery and multiple wrist and shoulder procedures.

“In my nine professional seasons, I’ve encountered numerous injuries, which led me to search for new ways to overcome the pain,” Kirilloff wrote in an Instagram post.

“These challenges have taken a toll on me mentally and physically; over time, I’ve realized that 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.”

He concludes a lengthy, heartfelt statement with, “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.”

The outfielder’s most productive season came in 2023, where he slashed .288 with 11 home runs and 41 RBI in 88 games. However, recurring injuries forced him to miss significant time, ultimately leading to his retirement.