Longtime Major League Baseball infielder Matt Carpenter has officially announced his retirement from the sport, shared on Wednesday. Carpenter, who spent a significant part of his career with the St. Louis Cardinals from 2011 to 2021, also played for the New York Yankees and the San Diego Padres in his final season.
Carpenter, who is well-remembered for his impressive decade with the Cardinals, expressed deep sentiments about stepping away from professional baseball during his appearance on the “Get in the Game” podcast. He shared that he felt a strong calling to prioritize family life, noting that he has two young children: a daughter named Kinley and a son named Kannon. He highlighted the joy of being present in their childhood moments, stating, “I just didn’t want to miss out on any more things that you miss as a professional athlete.”
In a reflective post on social media, Carpenter elaborated on his journey, expressing gratitude for being able to fulfill his childhood dream of playing professional baseball for 16 years. He thanked coaches, teammates, and support staff who have been part of his journey, acknowledging their influence on his growth both as a player and as a person.
Carpenter concludes his career with impressive statistics, totaling 179 home runs and 659 RBIs. His talent was recognized multiple times as he earned All-Star selections in 2013, 2014, and 2016. Interestingly, he made a notable mark even during his brief time with the Yankees, being the first player in the franchise’s history to hit six home runs within his first ten games.
While Carpenter’s final season did not reflect his peak performance—he recorded just four home runs and 15 RBIs—it doesn’t overshadow his significant contributions to the game and the bonds he formed along the way. His decision to retire and focus on family is a testament to his priorities and values, showcasing a heartfelt transition from the sport he loves to embracing the joys of fatherhood.
This heartfelt announcement serves not only as a career culmination for Carpenter but also as an inspiring reminder of the importance of family and personal fulfillment beyond professional pursuits.