Former Blue Jay Colby Rasmus stepping away from baseball

Colby Rasmus. (Chris O'Meara/AP)

Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Colby Rasmus is expected to miss the rest of the season after deciding to step away from baseball, the team announced Thursday.

“The Rays fully support Colby’s decision to step away from baseball,” the team said in a statement. “We are thankful for his contributions to our team, and we wish him and his family the best as they move forward. Respecting the privacy of Colby and his family, the Rays will have no further comment.”

Rasmus, 30, was placed on the restricted list after appearing in 37 games for Tampa Bay this season. The former Blue Jay had been on the disabled list since June 23rd while dealing with a hip injury.

Rasmus’ time in Toronto served as his longest stint with one big-league team, as he suited up for three-and-a-half seasons with the Blue Jays. He also spent two-and-a-half campaigns in St. Louis to start off his career, and two years in Houston prior to joining the Rays this season.

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