Twins Alex Kirilloff announces retirement

(ABC 6 News) – Former Twins first-round draft pick Alex Kirilloff has announced he is hanging up his cleats at the age of 26.

Kirilloff won the 2018 Sherry Robertson Award as Twins minor league Player of the Year, after hitting .348 (178-for-512) with 44 doubles, seven triples, 20 home runs, 101 RBI, 38 walks, 75 runs scored and a .970 OPS in 130 games combined between Low-A Cedar Rapids and High-A Fort Myers. He made his major league debut for the Twins on September 30, 2020 in Game 2 of the American League Wild Card Series against the Houston Astros and went 1-for-4, becoming the first player in American League/National League history to record a Postseason hit before recording one in the regular season. He was also the third player in AL/NL history to make his debut in the playoffs, but the first to start.

Kirilloff issues the following statement though the Minnesota Twins:

“During my career, I’ve encountered numerous injuries, which led me to search for new ways to overcome the pain constantly. These challenges have taken a toll on me mentally and physically; over time, I’ve realized that my passion for playing the game has shifted. Baseball demands an ‘all-in’ approach, something I’ve brought to every season. However, I can no longer give it the total commitment it requires. I’ve always believed that playing this game requires 110% effort, and anything less would not do justice to my teammates, coaches, fans, or the game itself. 

“I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from my wife, family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, and fans throughout my career. There are so many people to thank, and I will personally thank them. Your belief in me made all the difference, and I will be forever grateful. I’d like to thank the Minnesota Twins for giving me an opportunity. The things I was able to experience, I’ll be able to take with me the rest of my life. 

“As I navigate the recovery process for my current lower back injury, I’m excited to focus more on my family and explore new opportunities. While this next chapter won’t take place on the field, my story is far from over.”