For his own good, the Los Angeles Baseball Closer Carlos Etevez has officially announced his retirement.
After playing in Major League Baseball for portions of 15 seasons, seasoned reliever Joe Smith declared his retirement from baseball.
As a player for the New York Mets, Cleveland Guardians, Los Angeles Angels, Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, Houston Astros, Seattle Mariners, and Minnesota Twins, Smith made 866 appearances in games.
“After 16 incredible years, I am formally announcing my retirement from Major League Baseball with a great deal of humility and gratitude. I treasured the opportunity to play on the magnificent field with eight different teams and the most devoted supporters.
“My journey began in 2006 because of your belief in me, Erwin Bryant and the Mets organization. I will always be appreciative that you gave a vacuous kid from Cincinnati a chance.”
Allie LaForce, his spouse, posted on her social media to pay tribute to her husband’s declaration.
“Joe Smith, you are loved. I am deeply humbled by your commitment to and accomplishment in this game. In the coming chapter, I will treasure every day we spend together. It was difficult what you managed to accomplish. Raise your head in pride, knowing that you achieved great success through fidelity, love for your family, and kindness toward your staff and teammates. Bravo, darling.”
During his tenure with the Angels from 2014 to 2016, Smith pitched 177.2 innings with a 2.89 ERA. In exchange for right-handed pitcher Jesus Castillo, he was traded to the Chicago Cubs during the 2016 trade deadline.
Smith concluded his career with a record of 55-34 and a 3.14 ERA in more than five seasons. He did not pitch in 2023.
