A prominent former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher, Erik Swanson, has announced his retirement from professional baseball after an impressive seven-year career in Major League Baseball (MLB). The 32-year-old reliever took to Instagram to share his heartfelt message, reflecting on his journey in the sport.
Erik Swanson’s MLB Journey
Swanson, originally from North Dakota, was first drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2014. His career saw him transition through various teams, including the New York Yankees and the Seattle Mariners, where he made his MLB debut.
In a significant career move, Swanson was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for Teoscar Hernandez. During his tenure with the Blue Jays, he recorded a respectable 4.28 earned run average (ERA) across 120 appearances over 111.1 innings.
Reflections on a Successful Career
In his retirement post, Swanson expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his career, from family and agents to teammates and coaches. He emphasized the importance of the relationships he built within the sport.
“My time in this game was nothing short of amazing,” Swanson wrote. “You all have truly made this journey an unforgettable 12 years.”
Highlights of Swanson’s Time in MLB
- Major League Debut: With the Seattle Mariners.
- Trade to Toronto: Part of the deal involving Teoscar Hernandez.
- Performance: Recorded a 4.28 ERA in three seasons with Toronto.
- Total MLB Seasons: Seven Seasons in Major League Baseball.
- Professional Baseball Career: 12 years overall, including minor leagues.
Swanson’s last few seasons were challenging, culminating in being designated for assignment in June. Despite his efforts, he did not secure a position with any other MLB team.
Legacy and Future Plans
Looking back, Swanson acknowledged how baseball shaped his life and the friendships he cultivated in cities like Toronto, Seattle, and Winnipeg. As he closes this chapter, the community looks forward to seeing what he will pursue next in his post-baseball life.
