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Kevin Pillar, known for his spectacular catches and relentless hustle, has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after 13 seasons. The news, released Wednesday, marks the end of an era for Blue Jays fans who affectionately dubbed him “Superman” during his tenure in Toronto.
Pillar, 36, played seven seasons with the Blue Jays (2013-2019), where he became a cornerstone of the team’s outfield and a constant source of highlight-reel moments. His fearless dives and gravity-defying grabs in center field often turned potential home runs into outs, solidifying his place in the hearts of Toronto baseball enthusiasts.
The announcement has stirred up a wave of reactions across social media, with fans sharing their favorite Pillar memories. One user posted on X.com: “Remember that catch against Tampa Bay in ’17? Unbelievable! Thanks for the memories, KP.” Another on Facebook wrote: “Gonna miss watching him fly around the outfield. Always gave 110%.”
“Kevin was a spark plug for us,” said former teammate Marcus Stroman in a statement. “He brought energy every single day. He’s a true professional and an even better person. I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Untapped Potential: Pillar’s journey to the majors was not without its challenges. Drafted in the 32nd round of the 2011 MLB draft by the Blue Jays, he faced an uphill battle to prove himself. Many scouts doubted his offensive abilities, questioning whether his bat could keep pace with his exceptional fielding skills. However, Pillar’s unwavering determination propelled him forward. It happened when no one was watching, during countless hours of extra batting practice, refining his swing and improving his plate discipline.
Following his time in Toronto, Pillar became something of a journeyman, showcasing his talents for several other organizations. He played for the San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, Colorado Rockies, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, and finally, the Texas Rangers.
Overcoming Barriers: While Pillar never achieved superstardom, his longevity and contributions to various teams speak volumes about his dedication and adaptability. He consistently found ways to contribute, whether it was with his glove, his bat, or his leadership in the clubhouse. His career took an unexpected turn with a serious facial fracture after being hit by a pitch while playing for the Mets, threatening to derail his career. The recovery process was grueling, but Pillar’s resolve never wavered.
This is the list of teams Pillar played for after leaving the Blue Jays:
- San Francisco Giants (2019)
- Boston Red Sox (2020)
- Colorado Rockies (2020)
- New York Mets (2021)
- Los Angeles Dodgers (2021)
- Atlanta Braves (2021)
- Chicago White Sox (2022)
- Los Angeles Angels (2023)
- Texas Rangers (2024-2025)
Pillar initially planned to retire after the 2024 season. Howeever, a minor-league deal with the Rangers lured him back for one last shot. While he made the team out of spring training, he was ultimately designated for assignment on May 31, seemingly sealing his decision to retire.
Achieved Success: Pillar leaves the game with a career .260 batting average, 57 home runs, and 308 RBIs across 13 seasons. But his impact extends far beyond the stat sheet. He will be remembered for his contagious enthusiasm, his highlight-reel catches, and his unwavering commitment to the game. For Blue Jays fans, he’ll forever be “Superman,” a symbol of grit, determination, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence. The croud will truly miss his athletic style.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have played this game for so long,” Pillar stated in his official retirement announcement. “The memories and relationships I’ve forged will last a lifetime. Thank you to all the fans, teammates, coaches, and organizations that supported me along the way.”
As Pillar embarks on the next chapter of his life, the baseball world celebrates a career defined by perseverance, passion, and a relentless pursuit of the dream. He might be hanging up his cleats, but his legacy as one of the most exciting and dedicated players of his generation will endure.
The impact Pillar had on Toronto extends beyond the field. He actively engaged with the community, participating in numerous charitable events and initiatives. His genuine care for others resonated deeply with fans, solidifying his position as a role model both on and off the field. In an instagrm post, Pillar wrote, “Toronto, thank you for welcoming me and my family. I’ll never forget my time as a Blue Jay”.
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