Former Boston Red Sox pitcher Joe Kelly has announced the end of his Major League Baseball (MLB) career after 13 seasons, although he has notably refrained from using the term “retirement.” Having last pitched in a big league game in 2024, Kelly made his sentiments clear during an appearance on WEEI’s “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast, hosted by Rob Bradford.
In his conversation, Kelly expressed a unique perspective on the notion of retirement, stating, “Retiring is like something that my grandmother did. It’s so disrespectful. I’m sorry to all you people out there watching this that work a real job. You guys deserve to retire. Athletes don’t. We just stop playing.” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment that athletes often transition out of their careers without the formalities associated with retirement in other professions.
Kelly’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including three World Series championships. He played for several teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Chicago White Sox. He is particularly celebrated for his contributions to the Red Sox, where he was a key figure in the bullpen during the team’s successful run to the 2018 World Series.
Over the course of his time in Boston, Kelly made 182 regular-season appearances, posting a 4.33 ERA. His performance in the postseason was even more impressive; he appeared in 14 playoff games for the Red Sox, achieving a remarkable 0.51 ERA and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 17-to-0 over 17.2 innings pitched. Such statistics highlight his ability to perform under pressure and solidify his status as a fan favorite.
Beyond the statistics, Kelly’s tenure with the Red Sox is remembered for memorable moments, including a notable on-field altercation with Tyler Austin of the New York Yankees. This incident, along with his consistent performance, endeared him to fans in Boston and beyond.
As he steps away from the game, Kelly’s legacy is defined not just by his statistics but by the passion he brought to the field. His decision to conclude his career without formally labeling it as retirement reflects a distinctive viewpoint on the athlete’s journey.
In the wake of his announcement, the sports community reflects on Kelly’s contributions to the game, celebrating a career that has resonated with fans and teammates alike. His unique approach to stepping away from baseball ensures that he will be remembered as a vibrant personality in the sport.
As the MLB landscape continues to evolve, Kelly’s influence will remain, reminding fans of the excitement and intensity he brought to every game.
