A two-time Gold Glove catcher has decided to call it a career. Roberto Perez has announced that he will retire from Major League Baseball.
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"After much thought and reflection, I have decided to officially retire from baseball," Perez wrote on Instagram. "This game has been a major part of my life and has shaped me both on and off the field.
"Through baseball, I've learned discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the importance of commitment. I am deeply grateful for every coach, teammate, trainer, and supporter who helped me along the way and believed in me throughout my journey."
Perez, who hails from Puerto Rico, made his pro debut during the 2014 season. He played for the Cleveland Guardians and appeared in 29 games. He then spent the next seven seasons playing in Ohio. He accounted for 53 home runs, 55 runs, and 184 RBIs.
It was during this tenure that he helped the Guardians reach the World Series in 2016. The team ultimately lost to the Chicago Cubs 4-3.
The standout year in this stretch was 2019. Perez hit a career-high 24 home runs and accounted for a career-high 63 RBIs. He also won the Gold Glove for the first time in his career after leading MLB with 1,082 put-outs and 12 double-plays. He then added another Gold Glove in 2020.
"Congratulations on a great career, Bebo," the Cleveland Guardians said in a statement. "Thank you for 2016 and for everything you've contributed to our team and community."
The veteran catcher departed Cleveland after the 2021 season. He headed to Pittsburgh, where he spent one season. He appeared in 69 games as a hitter and 20 games as a catcher. He accounted for 163 put-outs.
His final season in MLB came in 2023 as he played for the San Francisco Giants. He has since played in the Puerto Rican Winter League and the Mexican League.
"While this decision was not an easy one, I feel confident that it is the right time to step away and begin the next chapter of my life," Perez added. "I leave the game with nothing but respect and appreciation for everything it has given me.
"Thank you to everyone who has been part of this experience and for the opportunities, lessons, and memories that will stay with me forever."
