Alex Kirilloff Retires from MLB at Age 26

Minnesota Twins outfielder Alex Kirilloff has announced his retirement from Major League Baseball at the age of 26, citing a series of injuries that have plagued his career as the primary reason. Kirilloff, who was a promising prospect and the 15th overall pick in the 2016 MLB draft, expressed that the constant injuries had taken a significant toll on him both mentally and physically, leading to a shift in his passion for the game. Despite his potential, Kirilloff never played more than 88 games in a season due to recurrent injuries, including multiple wrist surgeries and a chronic back issue, which were ultimately pivotal in his decision to retire. Over his four-year MLB career, he played in 249 games, batting .248 with 27 home runs and 116 RBIs. Kirilloff made his MLB debut in the 2020 postseason, becoming the first player to record a postseason hit before a regular-season hit. He expressed gratitude towards the Minnesota Twins and looks forward to focusing on new opportunities beyond baseball.