Minnesota Twins first baseman Alex Kirilloff stunningly retired at age 26 on Thursday morning.
Citing numerous injuries sustained over his career and the toll they’ve taken, the former top-10 prospect in baseball announced his retirement days before his 27th birthday.
Kirilloff debuted during the 2020 postseason, but wrist, labrum and back injuries — which led to several surgeries — limited him to 249 major-league games over the past four seasons. Kirilloff was projected to make $1.8 million in arbitration and was possibly a non-tender candidate.
An outstanding minor-league hitter, Kirilloff looked to be destined for stardom after he was selected 15th overall by the Twins in the 2016 MLB Draft. He batted .324/.380/.524 over parts of seven minor-league seasons and ranked as high as No. 9 in Major League Baseball’s top-100 prospect rankings ahead of the 2019 season.
“After nine seasons in professional baseball, I’m announcing my decision to step away from the game today,” Kirilloff said in a Twins press release. “Baseball has always been a cornerstone of my life. Starting with my childhood in western Pennsylvania, where I grew up as the son of a baseball coach. Spending countless hours in the batting cages, hitting hundreds of balls daily, fueled my dream of playing Major League Baseball. Living that dream has been an absolute joy – and this journey has been filled with unforgettable moments, challenges that led to growth, and lasting experiences that have enriched my life beyond measure.
“During my career, I’ve encountered numerous injuries, which led me to search for new ways to overcome the pain constantly. 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.
“I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from my wife, family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, and fans throughout my career. There are so many people to thank, and I will personally thank them. Your belief in me made all the difference, and I will be forever grateful. I’d like to thank the Minnesota Twins for giving me an opportunity. The things I was able to experience, I’ll be able to take with me the rest of my life.
“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.”
Injuries suck.
Alex Kirilloff was one of the best #MNTwins prospects in decades. Extremely talented hitter with huge upside.
But his first three MLB seasons ended with wrist/shoulder surgeries, and his fourth was ended by a back injury.
Retiring before his 27th birthday. Damn.
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) October 31, 2024
(Photo: Adam Hunger / Getty Images)
