Former Astros slugger Tony Kemp announces retirement after nine-year MLB career
Second baseman Tony Kemp announced his retirement on Thursday after a nine-year stint in the major leagues.
Kemp got his start with the Houston Astros. They selected him in the fifth round of the 2013 MLB draft after a stellar season in college. The slugger played for Vanderbilt University and was named an All-American and SEC Player of the Year before being drafted.
Kemp spent four seasons in Houston before being traded to the Chicago Cubs. He remained there for a year before being traded to the Athletics, staying there for four seasons. Last year, he played for the Baltimore Orioles and became a free agent after the season.
Kemp did not sign with another team, and with the season well underway, the slugger announced his retirement on social media.
"To the undersized baseball player, I see you. I hear you, and I understand you," Kemp wrote. "With all the metrics and data in the game of baseball today, there is still one measurement they can't compute: your heart. Continue to play the game the right way and respect it. The game will reward you, I promise. Leave no doubt and give everything you have like someone is watching you play baseball for the first time. I'm rooting for you all."
Kemp thanked his parents for being the foundation of his baseball dreams, driving him to tournaments, providing food, and sacrificing their time. He also thanked his brother, Corey, and his wife, Michelle, for their endless support and sacrifices.
The former Astros slugger also thanked his college coach, Tim Corbin. Kemp, an undersized player in many regards, was given the chance to play under the brightest lights at Vanderbilt.
Former Astros slugger is amazed at what he was able to accomplish during his MLB career
Being listed at 5'6", Tony Kemp did not have the biggest advantage when it came to the game of baseball. However, he did not let his height stop him.
One of the slugger's greatest accomplishments was being a World Series winner. He was a part of the 2017 Astros team that defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Kemp was also a four-time Roberto Clemente nominee. For those unaware, this award goes to the player who best represents the game through sportsmanship, community involvement, and positive contributions.
Last but not least, Kemp holds the record for the shortest designated hitter in MLB postseason history. That is quite the legacy left for a player many had doubts about.