Whit Merrifield has funny message for Phillies fans in retirement announcement

Whit Merrifield has called it a career after nine MLB seasons with the Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves. His time in Philly did not go the way many anticipated, but Merrifield made light of it in his retirement announcement posted to social media. 

In an Instagram post from his agency Warner Sports Management, Merrifield saluted the four major league fanbases he played for. He called Kansas City, the team he spent seven years with, his “first love.” Playing for an entire country as a member of the Blue Jays was “an honour I’ll never forget.” He said it was “a joy of a lifetime” to finish up his career with his hometown Braves. 

Merrifield, in a message to Philadelphia fans, apologized for his performance. 

“Philly, I liked you way more than you liked me,” Merrifield wrote. “Sorry I stunk for you.” 

Signed to a one-year, $8 million contract in 2024 to be a versatile bench bat, Merrifield struggled to find consistency at the plate. In 161 plate appearances, Merrifield slashed .199/.277/.295 with three home runs and 11 RBIs. He was released on July 12, 2024, and signed with the Braves 10 days later. 

Merrifield did not sign with a team prior to the 2025 season. A desire to spend more time at home with his one-year-old daughter is the main reason why the 36-year-old Merrifield decided to retire. 

“I loved all the moments,” Merrifield wrote. “All the highs and even the lows. I’m grateful for the way this game molded me. I can’t wait to tell my story to my daughter one day. What a ride. Thanks for everything.”