Chris Owings, a seasoned infielder, has officially announced his retirement from professional baseball. The news came through his Instagram post last week. At 34 years old, Owings concluded an impressive 11-year career in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Career Highlights of Chris Owings
Owings was drafted in the first round of the 2009 MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks. He made his major-league debut four years later, establishing himself as a reliable utility player throughout his career.
Performance Statistics
- Games Played: 723
- Batting Average: .239
- On-base Percentage: .286
- Slugging Percentage: .364
- Hits: 550
- Home Runs: 37
- RBIs: 220
- Stolen Bases: 79
His career spanned multiple teams, including the Diamondbacks, Kansas City Royals, Boston Red Sox, Colorado Rockies, Baltimore Orioles, and Pittsburgh Pirates. He played his last big-league game in 2023 with the Pirates.
Last Season and Retirement
In February 2024, Owings signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, he was released after participating in 80 games at the Triple-A level. His final season marked the end of a noteworthy chapter in his baseball journey.
Reflections on His Career
“I have received more from this game than I could’ve ever imagined,” Owings shared, expressing gratitude toward his family, coaches, and teams. His contributions went beyond the statistics, as he played crucial roles in various organizations during his time in the league.
Chris Owings leaves behind a legacy marked by resilience and adaptability. His above-average defensive skills at second base and ability to contribute as a utility player highlighted his versatility on the field.
El-Balad wishes Owings the best in his retirement and recognizes his significant impact on the game. His journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring players.
