Veteran Pitcher and Former Giants/Dodgers Star Retires After 12 Seasons

Veteran lefty Alex Wood has officially hung up his cleats, closing the book on a 12-year Major League Baseball run. He shared a heartfelt Instagram post, reflecting on the journey and thanking everyone who backed him along the way.

His career stands out for resilience, adaptability, and a fire that kept him going through injuries and shifting roles. It’s never easy to walk away, but Wood’s path was anything but ordinary.

Alex Wood’s Remarkable MLB Journey

He debuted with the Atlanta Braves in 2013, quickly making hitters uncomfortable with his funky delivery and sharp command. Over the years, he wore the uniforms of some of baseball’s biggest franchises—Dodgers, Reds, Giants, and Athletics.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Wood’s time in the majors brought some memorable moments and solid achievements:

• 2017 NL All-Star: Earned the nod with the Dodgers after a lights-out first half.
• World Series Champion: Helped the Dodgers win it all in 2020, stepping up in October.
• Seven Postseason Appearances: Always seemed to bring his best when the games mattered most.
• Career Stats: Finished with a 77-68 record and a 3.78 ERA, numbers that show his steady presence even when injuries hit.

Success and Setbacks with the Giants

When Wood joined the San Francisco Giants in 2021 on a one-year deal, not many saw him becoming such a key piece. Working mostly as a starter, he posted a 3.83 ERA in 26 starts and played a big part in the Giants’ franchise-record 107 wins.

Contract Extension and Changing Roles

That strong year led to a two-year, $25 million extension, but the next seasons brought more injuries and a bumpier ride. He put up a 4.77 ERA over 55 games, eventually moving to the bullpen to help where he could.

Wood’s willingness to shift roles showed how much he cared about the team, even as his own career wound down.

Injuries and Determined Comebacks

Injuries seemed to follow Wood around. In 2020, shoulder trouble limited him to just 12.2 regular-season innings.

He still bounced back in time to help the Dodgers win the championship, proving again he wouldn’t quit when things got tough.

Final Season with the Athletics

Wood’s 2024 run with the Oakland Athletics turned out to be his last stop in the big leagues. His numbers weren’t what they used to be, but his experience and presence mattered in the clubhouse.

Farewell Message to the Game

In his Instagram post, Wood said he gave “every ounce” to baseball. He thanked coaches, teammates, and fans, focusing on the relationships and memories that stuck with him most.

A Career Worth Celebrating

The baseball world, including Around the Foghorn, tipped their cap to Wood for everything he brought to the game. His mix of grit, skill, and professionalism made sure he left baseball on his own terms.

Legacy of a Determined Competitor

Alex Wood’s career really shows what perseverance looks like. He didn’t have the blazing fastball some pitchers do, but he found ways to adapt and outsmart hitters.

In big moments, he delivered. That made him valuable to every team he joined.

He played 12 seasons across five organizations. There were highs, lows, and a whole lot of passion for the game along the way.

When fans look back, it won’t just be about the stats. They’ll remember his attitude and how much he cared every single time he took the mound.

Baseball might be saying goodbye to Alex Wood the player, but honestly, his impact on the sport will stick around.

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Here is the source article for this story: Former SF Giants, Dodgers pitcher announces retirement after 12 MLB seasons