Every playing career needs to end somewhere. In a few special cases—Mariano Rivera in 2013, David Ortiz in 2016—their final season turns into a celebratory farewell tour. They go out on their own terms, feeling fulfilled while also knowing they could have continued contributing at the highest level.
For everybody else, however, the ending is awkward. Especially in today’s game, MLB front offices focus on projected performance over past performance. They won’t pursue players if they feel age, injury or skill set could get in the way of them sustaining success.
Does anyone have fond memories of the 2009 Florida Marlins?