MLB

Released After 13 MLB Seasons, Kevin Pillar Is Ready for Whatever Comes Next

The outfielder made the rare move from NCAA Division II to the major leagues, where he played for 10 teams and finished with more than 1,000 hits.
Released After 13 MLB Seasons, Kevin Pillar Is Ready for Whatever Comes Next
Kevin Pillar of the Texas Rangers makes a diving catch against the Los Angeles Angels at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on April 15, 2025. Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images
Donald Laible
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Kevin Pillar is officially retired.

When Pillar announced on July 2 that he was retiring as an active player, he meant it. At 36, the former 32nd-round draft pick (979th overall) of the Toronto Blue Jays in 2011 sent signals last season that in all likelihood, 2024 would be his last as a player.

Donald Laible
Donald Laible
Author
Don has covered pro baseball for several decades, beginning in the minor leagues as a radio broadcaster in the NY Mets organization. His Ice Chips & Diamond Dust blog ran from 2012-2020 at uticaod.com. His baseball passion surrounds anything concerning the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and writing features on the players and staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Don currently resides in southwest Florida.