Michael Young to announce retirement at Rangers Ballpark

Sep 19, 2012; Anaheim, CA, USA; Texas Rangers designated hitter Michael Young (10) is congraulated after scoring against the Los Angeles Angels at Angels Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Former Texas Rangers infielder decided yesterday that it was time for retirement.  It was reported that he had offers from 3 clubs, the Los Angeles Dodgers was reportedly one of them. Michael Young said the decision was made so he can spend more time with his family.  He has 3 children who are 8, 4 and 1.

"“Obviously, having three boys at home, I knew I had a ton of responsibility here with them,” Young said. “I’ve always been a big believer that you can’t just say you’re a dad, you’ve got to walk the walk, too. You’ve got to be involved. You’ve got to get down in the dirt with them. That’s what I’m looking forward to in the next chapter.” (Ken Rosenthal – Fox Sports)"

Michael Young will be at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington today to formally announce his retirement at 4 pm.

"“The Texas Rangers want to congratulate Michael Young on his outstanding major league career. For 12 seasons in a Rangers uniform, he was a standout performer on the field and the consummate role model in the community,” the Rangers said in a statement. (Richard Durrett ESPNDallas.com)"

Young may not be playing ball next year, but he said he’ll still stay active.  He plans on starting a  Tae Kwan Do classes on Monday to maintain his competitiveness.

The Texas Rangers got Michael Young with a three-player deal forom the Blue Jays back in 2000.   Later that season, he was playing for the Rangers and by May of 2001 he was playing full-time.  Young won the batting title in 2005 with a batting average of .331 ( the second youngest Rangers to do that).

For his career he hit .300/.346/.441/.787 over 14 seasons and was a 7 time all-star.  He was always a class act, and leader in the club house.

"“He was a great teammate and a great role model to me,” Texas pitcher Derek Holland said. “I learned a lot both on and off the field and really loved the way he went about his business and competed every day. He was an awesome teammate and an awesome person.” (Anthony Andro – Fox Sport)"

He was also one of the players that would always talk to the media, even if the Rangers played poorly.  He’ll be remember as one of the best infielders the Texas Rangers ever had.