The 2016 MLB season has been full of surprises and they may keep coming until the season is over. After the season is over some familiar faces will be leaving the game and the league will look much different without these players. These players will be remembered for the incredible athleticism they showed every time they stepped on a field.
These players have showed their teammates what it truly means to be a professional because of their individual work ethics. Although these players were not the only big names on their teams, they did make a significant difference on their teams and helped their team’s chemistry.
Prince Fielder
Prince Fielder was one of the most exciting players to watch because of the power of his swing. Fielder made a name for himself when he started his career in 2005 on the Milwaukee Brewers. It would only take him 2 years to become one of baseball’s most dangerous homerun threats.
In 2007 he would finish his season with a career high 50 homeruns. Due to a spinal injury Fielder was forced to retire from baseball before this season ends because he is physically unable to play. He will finish his career with 319 homeruns the same number his father Cecil Fielder.
Alex Rodriguez
Alex Rodriguez will be finishing up his career on the Yankees on Friday. In his last game he will not be taking the field because his request to play third base was denied by manager Joe Girardi. Clearly the Yankees management has had enough of his lack of production even on his way out.
The Yankees have not given up on this season and they made that clear in their decision to not play Rodriguez on Friday. Rodriguez will go down as one of the best homerun hitter in history with just under 700 homeruns. It is in his best interest to retire right now because they Yankees are ready to move on and start fresh with their prospects.
Mark Teixeira
Mark Teixeira will be calling it a career after the season is over. Teixeira has always been a reliable player, but his health would often play a role in his production on the field. He has had several injuries with his legs over the past few seasons, and that has given him extended time on the DL.
He knew it was time to leave the game although he is only 36. He has made plenty of game changing plays at first base with his quick moves to snag a ball out of the air and get an out. He will finish his career with just over 400 home runs.
These players made fantastic plays during their younger years, and even during their later years. Those highlights will always be a reminder of how great they made their teams. These players may have a shot at getting into the hall of fame, and they did all that they could to put their names in for consideration. They gave it all they had and more and they may not walk off as champions, but they will leave the game as some of the greats.