League: MLB Sport: Baseball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Kirby Yates announces retirement from MLB after 12-season career

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 29, 2026, 11:30 AM

Last updated Sep 29, 2026

Kirby Yates announces retirement from MLB after 12-season career

Summary

Kirby Yates announced his retirement from Major League Baseball after a 12-year career, marking the end on the final day of the season. Yates, a two-time All-Star and the 2019 National League saves leader, delivered his retirement message after pitching in his first start for the Pittsburgh Pirates against the Detroit Tigers. He leaves behind a legacy that includes 518 appearances, 101 saves, and a 3.35 ERA, spanning eight teams. Yates expressed gratitude for his career and mentioned feeling he had given everything he could to the sport.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Kirby Yates retires after 12 seasons in MLB
•Completed a final game with the Pittsburgh Pirates
•Was a two-time All-Star and 2019 saves leader
•Made his first start in the final game of the season
•Yates finishes with a 3.35 ERA and 101 saves

Latest Updates

11:30 AMYahoo Sports — Former Braves Closer, 2-Time All-Star And MLB Saves Leader Ends Career With 3 Words

What they're saying

"
The Atlanta Braves got a retirement update from a former star who suddenly announced the end of his career on the last day of the season.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Braves Philadelphia Phillies Pittsburgh Pirates San Diego Padres Texas Rangers Chicago Cubs New York Yankees MLB Baseball