In a heartfelt announcement, Matt Carpenter, one of baseball’s most respected and versatile veterans, revealed his retirement after 14 remarkable seasons in Major League Baseball. Known for his resilience, leadership, and late-career resurgence, Carpenter leaves behind a legacy that transcends his numbers on the field. The veteran infielder made his announcement on Sports Spectrum’s Get In The Game podcast, sharing his journey through the highs and lows of a distinguished career.
“I’ve been very fortunate to play for some incredible organizations,” Carpenter said. “I’m excited for what’s next, but this is the right time for me to step away from the game I love.”
Though he was open to continuing his career through 2024, Carpenter’s final season with the St. Louis Cardinals proved to be his last. Despite struggling with injuries and a high strikeout rate, Carpenter maintained a respectable 95 wRC+ across 157 plate appearances, a solid contribution for a part-time player. However, with the Cardinals focusing on developing younger talent, it became clear that a return was unlikely, prompting Carpenter to make the difficult decision to retire.
Carpenter’s career began with the Cardinals, where he was drafted in the 13th round of the 2009 MLB Draft. After making his debut in 2011, he truly broke through in 2012 with a .294 batting average, contributing across multiple positions and finishing sixth in National League Rookie of the Year voting. By 2013, he had firmly established himself as one of the game’s best, posting a .318/.392/.481 line and earning his first All-Star selection.
A key offensive contributor to the Cardinals for much of his career, Carpenter was rewarded with a six-year, $52 million extension in 2014. Over the next few seasons, he averaged 27 home runs per year and became a fixture in St. Louis’ lineup. However, after a 2019 extension, his performance began to decline. In 2022, the Cardinals opted not to exercise a team option, and Carpenter became a free agent for the first time in his career.
Carpenter spent the 2023 season with the San Diego Padres but struggled to maintain the form he showed in New York. He was traded to Atlanta before the 2024 season but was released after a brief stint. The 39-year-old ultimately chose to retire, bringing an end to a career that saw him play 1,511 games, hit 179 home runs, and contribute 813 runs scored and 659 RBIs.
Throughout his career, Carpenter posted a .259/.366/.449 slash line with a 125 wRC+ and accumulated over 30 WAR, earning over $100 million in career earnings. He was a key figure in the Cardinals’ success, making three All-Star teams and earning the respect of teammates and fans alike for his leadership, versatility, and unwavering commitment to the game.
As Matt Carpenter walks away from the game, his career serves as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of a second chance. His impact will be felt not only in the box scores but also in the clubhouse, where his experience and work ethic were invaluable. Though his time in the spotlight may have been brief with the Yankees, his contribution to their 2022 season remains a fond memory for fans.
