A pitcher with a great track record in MLB has decided to hang up his glove. Alex Wood, the left-hander who won the hearts of fans with his dedication and passion, has announced his retirement at the age of 34. The pitcher who shone with the Los Angeles Dodgers had a 12-season professional career in which he also shone with other teams such as the Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants.
His time in baseball is not only measured in statistics, but in unforgettable moments that will remain etched in the memory of fans. Wood was a key part of the Dodgers team that won the World Series in 2020, and shared his feelings via Instagram
I have given every ounce of myself in pursuit of my lifelong dream of becoming a Major League Baseball player.
Los Angeles Dodgers fans remember him as excitement
In addition to conquering the Fall Classic in 2020, he will be remembered for his role in the same instances against the Houston Astros where he was one of the few pitchers who dominated the Texas sluggers. However, it is worth remembering that the Astros’ title was marred by “sign stealing” which is prohibited by MLB and yet they were still respected for their World Series triumph. Therefore, his love for the game is evident, and although he is retiring from the field, his legacy will live on in every fan who saw him pitch with his heart on his sleeve.
During his career, Wood accumulated a record of 77 wins and 68 losses. He had a 3.78 ERA in 278 games, 211 of which were as a starter. His best season came in 2017, when he was selected to the All-Star Game, establishing himself as one of the most reliable pitchers in the league. His ability to “throw fire” from the mound and his ability to get out of tricky situations made him a favorite among fans.
What was his last team in MLB?
The last chapter of his career was with the then Oakland Athletics in 2024, where despite a modest 1-3 record and 5.26 ERA, his experience and leadership were invaluable to the team. Wood will always be remembered for his competitive spirit and unconditional love for baseball, a sport that, as he himself said, was his first love.
In his career, Wood struck out 1,173 batters and walked 374 in 1,258 innings pitched. With his retirement, Alex Wood leaves a void on the mound, but his impact on the game and on the fans will endure. His story is a reminder that baseball is more than just a game; it is a passion that is carried in the soul.
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