Charlie Blackmon Announces Retirement After 14 Seasons with Colorado Rockies
Long-time Colorado Rockies outfielder Charlie Blackmon has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, marking the end of an illustrious 14-season career. Blackmon shared the news via social media, expressing heartfelt gratitude for his time with the Rockies, a team he has been synonymous with since being selected as a second-round draft pick out of Georgia Tech in 2008.
"As a kid you play the game because you love it, like nothing else matters. I still play the game that way, but I don't feel like a kid anymore. My perspective has changed. I have been blessed to call the city of Denver and The Colorado Rockies my baseball home for the entirety of my career. I am grateful for the support of this organization, my teammates, and most of all Rockies fans. It is with a thankful heart and a career's worth of memories that I choose a new path," Blackmon shared in his announcement.
Blackmon's career with the Rockies is decorated with numerous achievements. Over the span of 14 seasons, the outfielder played exclusively in Colorado, amassing 1,797 hits, 226 home runs, 333 doubles, 67 triples, and 148 stolen bases. His efforts on the field earned him a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) of 20.8, evidence of his significant impact on the team's performance. A four-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger award winner, Blackmon's career peaked in 2017 when he won the National League batting title.
Despite a challenging season in which Blackmon faced offensive struggles while serving as the team's primary designated hitter under a one-year contract, his legacy remains untarnished. He remains a fan favorite, admired not only for his skills but also for his dedication and passion for the game.
Team owner Dick Monfort expressed his admiration for Blackmon in light of his retirement. "When Charlie told me of his plans to retire I got a little emotional, as I'm sure many fans will when they see the news that one of the greatest Rockies of all-time will no longer take the field. It has been an absolute privilege watching Charlie's career from start to finish here at Coors Field," Monfort said.
"Charlie's passion and dedication to the game of baseball, this organization and our great fans was on display every single day and I can't thank him enough for pouring his heart into every game and every at-bat over the course of his 14 years here. Charlie is a Rockie to his core, and although his playing days are over, he will continue to be a part of this team in a multitude of ways going forward. We look forward to celebrating Charlie throughout this weekend and we wish Charlie and his family nothing but the best in the years ahead," Monfort added.
Blackmon's journey with the Rockies began as a promising draft pick and evolved into a storied career that saw him become one of the franchise's most iconic players. His commitment to the team and the city of Denver, as well as his consistency on the field, have left an indelible mark on the Rockies' history. As Blackmon steps away from professional baseball, his legacy will continue to inspire fans and players alike.
With the announcement of his retirement, tributes from across the baseball community are expected to pour in, celebrating Blackmon's contributions to the game. The Rockies organization plans to honor him with a series of ceremonies and events throughout the upcoming weekend, giving fans the chance to show their appreciation for a player who has given so much to the team and the sport.
Charlie Blackmon's retirement marks the end of an era for the Colorado Rockies. His dedication, talent, and love for the game have defined his career, solidifying his place in the hearts of Rockies fans and in the annals of Major League Baseball history.