When people look back at Jason Giambi‘s career, many will place an asterisk on it due to the steroid and biogenesis scandals that loomed over the power hitters numbers. Regardless, tainted or not, there’s no denying that for a period of time, Jason Giambi was one of the most feared hitters in Major League Baseball.
That time has since come and gone and today the former MLB slugger announced his retirement.
Giambi informed the New York Daily News of his decision and thanks his family, friends and fans for the wonderful years.
“After 20 seasons, I have decided to officially announce my retirement as a Major League Baseball player.
“I really want to thank my wife, Kristian, for going on this journey with me. She’s always been my rock. She’s always been there for me with support and love, and I really couldn’t have done this without her. She’s been everything to me and I don’t think I can state in words how much she’s meant to me. I love you and thank you.”
Jason Giambi continued:
“I want to thank the fans for being a part of this incredible journey. I especially want to thank the fans that gave me a second chance to let me show you the human being you see today.
“Lastly, to the game of baseball: I started playing you when I was a kid and I’m leaving you a man. Thank you.”
A 20-year veteran, Jason Giambi finishes his career with 440 home runs, 1441 RBI and a .277 batting average split between the A’s, Yankees, Rockies and Indians. He is expected to take on a coaching role, likely with the Indians moving forward.
