A former All-Star utility man for the Kansas City Royals is calling it a career after nine seasons.

 

Whit Merrifield has announced his retirement after time in Kansas City, Philadelphia, Toronto, and Atlanta. Merrifield had not played a game in 2025, last appearing for the Braves last season.

 

Merrifield was a ninth-round pick in the 2010 amateur draft out of the University of South Carolina, and made his debut in Kansas City in 2016. He played six seasons with the Royals, leading the MLB in hits twice, making three All-Star games, and leading the MLB in stolen bases three times.

 

The utility man played primarily second base and right field for KC, but also appeared at third base, left field, center field, and designated hitter. He says the birth of his daughter last year played a large role in the decision to call it a career.