In a bittersweet moment for San Francisco Giants fans, beloved shortstop Brandon Crawford announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Wednesday after an illustrious 14-year career. The news marks the end of an era for the Giants, as Crawford was one of the last remaining links to the team’s championship dynasty of the early 2010s.
A Homegrown Hero Says Goodbye
Crawford, a Bay Area native who grew up rooting for the Giants, was drafted by his hometown team in the fourth round of the 2008 MLB Draft out of UCLA. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his Major League debut in 2011, becoming the Giants’ starting shortstop the following year.
Over the next decade, Crawford established himself as one of the best all-around shortstops in baseball. He was a key member of the Giants teams that won World Series championships in 2012 and 2014, providing stellar defense and timely hitting throughout those postseason runs.
Three-Time All-Star, Four-Time Gold Glover
Crawford’s individual accolades are just as impressive as his team successes. He was selected to the National League All-Star team in 2015, 2018, and 2021, and won Gold Glove Awards for his defensive excellence at shortstop in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2021.
His best offensive season came in 2021, when he set career highs with a .298 batting average, 24 home runs, and 90 RBIs at age 34. Crawford finished fourth in NL MVP voting that year, cementing his status as one of the game’s elite players even in the latter stages of his career.
A Giant Among Giants
Crawford’s Giants career ranks among the greatest in franchise history. He retires as the team’s all-time leader in games played at shortstop, and ranks in the top 10 in franchise history in hits, doubles, home runs, and RBIs by a shortstop.
“Brandon Crawford has been the heartbeat of our team for the past decade,” said a source close to the Giants organization. “His leadership, professionalism, and clutch performances will be sorely missed. He’s a true Giants legend.”
Why Retire Now?
Crawford’s retirement comes as a bit of a surprise, given that he was still playing at a high level as recently as last season. However, in his retirement announcement on Instagram, Crawford emphasized the importance of spending more time with his family.
“Time is precious. I’m incredibly grateful for all the years I spent playing the game I love, but now it is time for me to spend it with the people who I’m most thankful for.”
– Brandon Crawford’s Instagram announcement
Crawford and his wife, Jalynne, have four children together. After 14 seasons of the grueling baseball schedule, it seems Crawford is ready to focus on being a full-time husband and father.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Although Brandon Crawford’s playing days are over, his impact on the Giants franchise and the game of baseball will be felt for years to come. He embodied the team’s resurgence in the 2010s and became a fan favorite for his steady presence and postseason heroics.
Crawford’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. He was actively involved in the community through his participation in the Giants Community Fund, which supports underserved youth in the San Francisco area. In 2018, Crawford received the prestigious Athletes in Action Bart Starr Award for exemplifying outstanding character and leadership on and off the field.
An Outpouring of Appreciation
News of Crawford’s retirement triggered an avalanche of tributes from teammates, coaches, and opponents alike. Giants catcher Buster Posey, who formed a long-time bond with Crawford as the team’s up-the-middle duo, shared a heartfelt message on social media.
“Congratulations on an amazing career, Craw. It was an honor to share the field with you for so many years. Your talent, leadership, and friendship made me a better player and person. Enjoy retirement, you’ve earned it!”
– Buster Posey via Twitter
Even rivals tipped their caps to Crawford. Nolan Arenado, the Colorado Rockies third baseman who faced off against Crawford frequently over the years, offered his respect:
“I always hated playing against Craw because he was such a tough out and made every play. But I loved watching him play. The way he competed and led his team was special. Congrats on a hell of a career.”
– Nolan Arenado via Instagram
A Giant, Now and Forever
As Brandon Crawford hangs up his spikes, he can look back on a career that fulfilled his childhood dreams and more. The skinny kid from Pleasanton who grew up idolizing Giants legends like Will Clark and Barry Bonds became a Giants legend in his own right, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise and the hearts of its fans.
While it will be strange not to see number 35 patrolling shortstop at Oracle Park next season, Giants fans will always remember the joy, excitement, and excellence that Brandon Crawford brought to the field every day. In the long and storied history of the Giants, few players have meant more to the team and the city than the humble hometown hero who always let his play do the talking.
So here’s to you, Brandon Crawford. Thank you for the memories, the championships, and the class you brought to the Giants organization. You’ll be missed, but never forgotten. Once a Giant, always a Giant.
