(Photo credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images)

Whit Merrifield, a three-time MLB All-Star who last played for the Atlanta Braves in 2024, announced his retirement Tuesday after nine years in the big leagues.

In a statement released through his agency, Warner Sports Management, Merrifield cited his family -- namely a daughter born in March 2024 -- as a reason to step away.

'I was never talented enough to just show up and play,' Merrifield said. 'Baseball required my full focus and energy for me to compete at the level I wanted to, and I realize I can no longer give that effort.

'At this point in life, I'd much rather chase around a toddler than chase sliders.'

The 36-year-old infielder, a ninth-round selection of the Kansas City Royals in 2010, spent more than six seasons in the minor leagues before making his major league debut at age 27 in 2016. Merrifield ends his career with 1,249 hits -- including 94 home runs and 256 doubles -- and a .280 batting average in 1,147 games.

He led the American League in stolen bases three times, finishing his career with 218 swipes.

'Since I've now had some time away from the game, I've had a chance to reflect on my individual career for the first time in my life,' Merrifield said. 'I'm proud of myself. The toughness I developed and the things I was able to accomplish, nobody outside of my camp thought possible.'

Merrifield quickly established himself as a premier player for Kansas City after his call-up, earning MVP votes in 2018 after batting a career-best .304. He followed that up in 2019 with a .302 season that was highlighted by his first All-Star nod. He added another All-Star selection in 2021 and a third in 2023 as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays.

Merrifield signed with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024 but was released after batting .199 in 53 games. He finished the year with the Braves, with whom he hit .248.

'I loved all the moments,' Merrifield said. 'All the highs and even all the lows. I'm grateful for the way this game molded me. I can't wait to tell my story to my daughter one day.'

--Field Level Media