Report: Jackie Bradley Jr. Expected To Retire
Jackie Bradley Jr., a World Series champion and former Gold Glover centerfielder, is expected to retire, per Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
The longtime Red Sox outfielder has enjoyed a fruitful career that includes some very impressive team and individual accomplishments. He most recently played for the Kansas City Royals in 2023, but also had brief stops in Milwaukee and Toronto along with Boston.
Born in Richmond, VA, “JBJ” as he became known made an instant impact for his speed in center field along with timely hitting. His .225 batting average does not jump out, but he was always a force to be reckoned with in the bottom of the Sox’ lineup, especially in October.
After being drafted in the first round in 2011, Bradley made his debut with the 2013 World Series team but played only 37 games.
Fan Favorite:
As a Yankees fan, I never enjoyed watching JBJ play. He always struck me as a thorn-in-your-side type of player. For all of the amazing players that the 2018 Red Sox team has, he flew under the radar big time. That play style made him a beloved figure in Boston; his 2016 season is also one to remember, slashing .267/.349/.486 with 29 home runs, 87 RBIs and nine stolen bases.
You also cannot forget his heroics in the 2018 ALCS vs the “defending” Houston Astros. Despite only going 3-15 in the series, Bradley knocked in nine runs, the second-most in an ALCS in Red Sox history behind only David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez. It’s also not a debate that he deserved many more than one Gold Glove. Trey Daubert could have told you that years ago.
Jackie Bradley Jr. is more than likely calling it quits on an excellent career. While he accomplished a lot, the argument is there that he deserved even more recognition.
