Detroit Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera believes next season will be his last in the majors.
The two-time American League MVP and 12-time All-Star revealed the news Monday while speaking to MLB.com’s Christina De Nicola as he prepares for his 21st season.
“I think it’s going to be my last year,” Cabrera said. “It feels a little weird to say that. I thought, I’m not going to say ‘never,’ but I think it’s time to say goodbye to baseball.”
Cabrera doesn’t intend to step away from the game completely, however.
“I’ve had a lot of conversations with my family,” Cabrera said. “I don’t know, we’ll see if I can stay in the Tigers’ organization, help young guys. I have time to decide, but my goal is to stay in baseball, try to help, because I love baseball. Why would I go away?”
The 39-year-old from Venezuela made his major league debut in 2003 with the Florida Marlins and won the World Series in his rookie season. Cabrera was traded to the Detroit Tigers prior to the 2008 season and captured his first MVP award in 2012 while becoming the first player in 45 years to hit for the triple crown. He captured his second MVP award the following season.
After reaching 500 career home runs in 2021, Cabrera surpassed the 3,000-hit plateau this past season to become just the seventh player to achieve both accomplishments.
Next season also happens to be the final year of the contract extension Cabrera signed with the Tigers in 2014.
Before beginning his final MLB season, Cabrera is hoping to get the opportunity to represent Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic, set to take place March 8-21.
“I would love to play,” Cabrera said. “If they give me a chance, I’ll play.”
