Kolten Wong, celebrated for his defensive prowess at second base and noted for his peak offensive years with the Milwaukee Brewers, officially announced his retirement on May 19 after an 11-season career in Major League Baseball.
Wong’s time with the Brewers in 2021 and 2022 was particularly noteworthy as he experienced his best hitting seasons. He achieved career-high totals in home runs during these years, with 14 homers in 2021 and 15 in 2022. His offensive performance during this span was substantiated by a significant OPS+, which reflects on-base percentage and slugging, adjusted for various factors, marking them as some of his best years at the plate.
Initially joining the Brewers in 2021 with a strong defensive reputation bolstered by two Gold Gloves, Wong’s defensive metrics with Milwaukee saw him grade below average. However, he remained a key contributor over his career, amassing a total of 22.9 Wins Above Replacement. His career journey took a turn when he was traded to the Seattle Mariners in December 2022. However, the trade did not yield success for either side, as Wong was later designated for assignment after just 66 games, and Winker, who was traded to the Brewers, struggled with injuries.
Throughout his career, Wong, a Hawaii native, accumulated impressive statistics including 973 hits, 512 runs, 86 home runs, and 120 stolen bases, finishing his career with a .719 OPS. He played his first eight seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he notably ranked third in the 2014 Rookie of the Year voting and garnered MVP votes in 2019.
Wong’s dedication and impact on the field have left a lasting legacy, and while he steps away from the game, he leaves behind a commendable career filled with significant achievements. His journey reflects the determination and skill that young players can aspire to in pursuing their baseball dreams.