After spending years in physical therapy post surgery and ultimately listening to my body, I’ve thought long and hard and have made the difficult decision to hang up my cleats for a final time and step away from playing the game of baseball. My emotions run deep on this, I’m sad I won’t be able to compete anymore and hate to think there are some people I may never get to see again, but the good that has come from this beautiful game far outweighs the sad. The people who I have met have changed me deeply and forever, my teammates, friends, coaches, mentors, fans and trainers all have become a part of who I am and I cannot thank or love them anymore than I do. The experiences I’ve gotten to live through and the fantastic people ive come across are a blessing I wish could be bestowed upon everyone who crosses the white lines and dreams big. To everyone on this journey, all my old teammates, workout buddies, my alma mater Pepperdine and to the Cincinnati Reds thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to reach my childhood dream and pitch in the Major Leagues. Most importantly to my parents, family and to Natalie thank you for the never ending support and belief in me, without it I would have been lost. With that said I’m excited for the next chapter of life and I’m genuinely excited to have a beer and some peanuts at a baseball game! Much Love -JM