12-Year Veteran Outfielder & Gold Glover Announces Retirement

September 29, 2025 , , , ,
Chicago White Sox outfielder Michael A. Taylor tips his helmet after acknowledgement of his retirement during 2025 game.

Michael A. Taylor officially announced his retirement on Sunday, closing out a 12-year MLB career in a fitting setting - at Nationals Park, where he made his debut in 2014. 

The 34-year-old Chicago White Sox outfielder said the decision came after prayerful discussion with his wife, Brianna, noting his desire to spend more time with his young family.

“To be able to play my last games of my career here in this ballpark in front of these fans, it’s just the icing on the cake,” Taylor said. He received warm ovations throughout the weekend and capped his career with a 1-for-3 performance, an RBI, and a walk in Chicago’s 8-0 win over the Washington Nationals.

Taylor leaves behind a steady career defined by his elite defense, speed, and quiet leadership. A sixth-round pick by Washington in 2009, he became a trusted outfielder, winning a Gold Glove in 2021 and serving as a key piece of the Nationals’ 2019 World Series championship run. 

Over 12 seasons with the Washington Nationals, Kansas City Royals, Minnesota Twins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and White Sox, he posted a .232 batting average with 109 home runs, 128 stolen bases, and 12.6 career WAR (per Baseball Reference).

Though his playing days are over, Taylor expressed interest in staying involved with the game, possibly through coaching, while prioritizing his family. “I love the game, but my family is my priority,” he said.

Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

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