The Houston Astros are set to chase their third World Series title this October after clinching the AL West for the fourth consecutive year.
Initially, it seemed unlikely, as injuries to key players led to a slow start, placing them at the bottom of their division at one point. However, their championship experience eventually prevailed, and they surged in the second half of the season to take control of the race.
Winning a third World Series would be monumental for the franchise, especially since their first title came in 2017, 55 years after their debut as the “Colt .45s” in Major League Baseball.
Players from that championship team are cherished in Houston, particularly those who endured the lengthy rebuilding phase when the team struggled.
One of those players, Marwin Gonzalez, announced his retirement from baseball on Thursday.
“After two incredible years in Japan, it’s time for me to say goodbye. I’m deeply thankful to my teammates, coaches, and fans for their warm welcome. Despite the language barrier, we quickly formed strong bonds, making every moment on the field memorable. This experience has changed my life, especially sharing it with my family. Japan will always be close to our hearts. I’m grateful for the opportunities, memories, and friendships I’ve made. Thank you for welcoming me and for your unwavering support. You have my utmost respect. Arigatou gozaimasu,” he said in a statement translated by Darragh McDonald of MLB Trade Rumors.
Gonzalez spent the last two years with the Orix Buffaloes in Japan after leaving MLB in 2022 following his time with the New York Yankees.
Acquired by Houston in 2012 from the Boston Red Sox, the switch-hitter became a key player for the Astros, excelling before the arrival of their top prospects.
His best season came in 2017, when he posted a .303/.377/.530 line with 23 home runs, 90 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 146, finishing 19th in MVP voting.
He played seven seasons with the Astros from 2012 to 2018 before signing with the Minnesota Twins for the 2019 season.
Gonzalez returned to Houston in 2021 on a minor league contract, appearing in 14 Major League games.
He concludes his 11-year MLB career with 888 hits, 107 home runs, 415 RBIs, and a bWAR of 14.3.
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