Charlie Blackmon Announces Retirement After 14 Seasons with Colorado Rockies
On Monday, long-time Colorado Rockies outfielder Charlie Blackmon announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, marking the end of an illustrious 14-season career. Blackmon, who has been a cornerstone of the Rockies organization since being selected as a second-round draft pick out of Georgia Tech in 2008, shared the news through social media.
"As a kid you play the game because you love it, like nothing else matters. I still play the game that way, but I don't feel like a kid anymore. My perspective has changed. I have been blessed to call the city of Denver and The Colorado Rockies my baseball home for the entirety of my career. I am grateful for the support of this organization, my teammates, and most of all Rockies fans. It is with a thankful heart and a career's worth of memories that I choose a new path," Blackmon said.
Blackmon's career is nothing short of impressive. Over 14 seasons, he amassed 1,797 hits, 226 home runs, 333 doubles, and 67 triples. Additionally, he recorded 148 stolen bases and achieved a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) of 20.8. His dedication and outstanding performance earned him four All-Star selections and two Silver Slugger awards, further solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats in Rockies history. In 2017, Blackmon won the National League batting title, cementing his place among the elite players of his era.
This past season, Blackmon faced challenges offensively while serving as the Rockies' primary designated hitter under a one-year contract. Despite the hurdles, his commitment to the game and his team never wavered. Team owner Dick Monfort expressed his deep admiration for Blackmon upon hearing of his retirement plans.
"When Charlie told me of his plans to retire I got a little emotional, as I'm sure many fans will when they see the news that one of the greatest Rockies of all-time will no longer take the field. It has been an absolute privilege watching Charlie's career from start to finish here at Coors Field," Monfort said.
Monfort continued, highlighting Blackmon's profound impact on the team and fans alike: "Charlie's passion and dedication to the game of baseball, this organization and our great fans was on display every single day and I can't thank him enough for pouring his heart into every game and every at-bat over the course of his 14 years here. Charlie is a Rockie to his core, and although his playing days are over, he will continue to be a part of this team in a multitude of ways going forward. We look forward to celebrating Charlie throughout this weekend and we wish Charlie and his family nothing but the best in the years ahead."
As Blackmon steps away from the field, his legacy remains firmly intact. He has been a symbol of consistency and excellence for the Rockies, contributing to some of the most memorable moments in the franchise's history. His announced plans to retire might bring tears to the eyes of many loyal fans, but his influence on the team and the sport will undoubtedly endure.
Throughout his career, Blackmon has been more than just an athlete; he has been a community pillar and a role model for aspiring baseball players. His journey from a Georgia Tech student to an MLB star is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and love for the game. Blackmon's retirement signifies the end of an era for Colorado Rockies baseball, but it also opens a new chapter for a man who has given so much to the sport.
As the Rockies prepare to honor him, fans and teammates alike will have the opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of "Chuck Nazty." While his presence on the field will be missed, Charlie Blackmon's spirit and passion for baseball will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans.