"They Need Me Home": James Paxton Announces Plans To Retire

Boston Red Sox pitcher James Paxton has announced that he plans to retire from professional baseball following the conclusion of the 2024 season. 

In an interview on the Baseball Isn’t Boring podcast with Rob Bradford, the 35-year-old left-hander, affectionately known as “Big Maple,” explained that family considerations played a major role in his decision. 

“I think I can still go out there and compete and help a team win, but with where my family’s at right now, they need me home,” Paxton said. 

Currently sidelined with a partially torn calf, Paxton's chances of returning this season appear slim, unless the Red Sox make a deep postseason run.

James Paxton says he plans to retire after the 2024 season

(via @bradfo) pic.twitter.com/XXXefRxunR

— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) September 11, 2024

Paxton’s career has been defined by moments of brilliance, as well as frequent injuries. 

Over 11 seasons in the majors with the Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox, Paxton compiled a 73-41 record with a 3.77 ERA in 177 starts, striking out over 1,000 batters. 

His most memorable achievement came in 2018 when he threw a no-hitter against the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming the first Canadian-born pitcher to accomplish the feat on home soil. 

Despite his immense talent, injuries often kept him off the field, and this season marked only the fifth time in his career he pitched more than 100 innings.

Absolutely stinks that this is how things will end for James Paxton.

He just told @bradfo he’s planning to retire after the season.

Wish he would’ve been able to give this team one last boost down the stretch.pic.twitter.com/AyqmbyPcVO

— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) September 11, 2024

Looking forward to life beyond baseball, Paxton has already begun work on a new venture aimed at addressing athletes’ mental health. 

Reflecting on his decision, he acknowledged the bittersweet nature of stepping away from the game. 

“It’s tough, but I feel the responsibility to be at home with my family, and I’m looking forward to that next chapter,” Paxton said.

Photo Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images