Chris Davis Calls It A Career

Baltimore Orioles' slugger Chris Davis has announced his retirement from the MLB. He noted his hip injury as the primary reason. He hadn't played since last season and he was limited to just 16 games, too.

Chris Davis has announced his retirement. pic.twitter.com/3QKvErwTzn

— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) August 12, 2021

Davis had one year left remaining on his monstrous seven-year, $161 million contract. He will still get paid the rest of his salary, but it will be over the course of multiple years. It strikes a similar resemblance to the legendary Bobby Bonilla situation with the New York Mets. However, it won't last as long as his. 

After signing his big contract during the 2015 off-season, David rapidly declined. Not only did his ability to hit for contact disappear, but he also slowly lost his power. During his final three seasons in the league, he hit below the Mendoza Line. His highest average during those years was in 2019 when he hit .179. Yet, during that season, he also set an MLB record for most consecutive at bats without a hit by a position player. He went 0-54. 

However, Davis also had some very impressive moments during his career. He led the league in home runs during both the 2013 and 2015 seasons. He also was an All-Star, won a Silver Slugger award and led the AL in RBIs during that same 2013 season. Therefore, he was a real threat at plate during his prime and that should never be forgotten. 

In 1,417 games with the Texas Rangers and Orioles, Davis had a .233 batting average, hit 295 home runs and had 780 RBIs. Overall, it was a very solid career for the veteran. It just didn't end the way it should have. 

Photo Credit: © Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports