Former Olympian Eddy Alvarez, who spent the 2022 season in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, announced his retirement through a social media post on Instagram.
“For as long as I can remember, I’ve been chasing something. A time. A trophy. A roster spot. A dream. But today, I get to pause… and look back at a ride that’s meant everything to me,” Alvarez wrote in his caption.
“After 20+ years as a professional athlete, across two different sports, two Olympic Games, and one unforgettable baseball journey, I’ve decided to step away from playing the game that’s been my heart since I was a kid.
“Skating to pro baseball was a long shot. Signing as a non-drafted free agent after the Olympics at 24 and somehow making it all the way to the big leagues — it was the kind of thing a kid dreams about but never expects. I poured my entire soul into this career, and in return, the game gave me a lifetime of memories.”
Alvarez additionally mentioned his opportunity to represent Team USA in the Olympics, during which he became the first baseball player to carry the country flag in the event.
“I’m walking away with a full heart,” Alvarez concluded his message with.
Alvarez signed a Minor League contract with the Braves during the offseason and played in 51 games for their Triple-A Gwinnett affiliate before retiring.
The two-time Olympic medalist went 4-for-25 with three RBI and nine strikeouts in 14 games (nine starts) with the Dodgers during the 2022 season. He was with the team until getting optioned back to Triple-A Oklahoma City once Mookie Betts was activated off the 10-day injured list.
Alvarez batted .322/.439/.554 with nine doubles, eight home runs and 29 RBI over 47 games with Oklahoma City.
Alvarez was designated for assignment in August 2022 and subsequently released by the Dodgers after clearing waivers. He went on to sign with the Milwaukee Brewers that offseason and last appeared in the Majors during the 2024 season as a member of the New York Mets.
The 35-year-old joins Kevin Pillar as former Dodgers who retired this season.
Eddy Alvarez achieved Olympics history
Although Alvarez focused on playing baseball professionally, his background included being one of just six athletes to win medals in different sports at both the Summer and Winter Olympics.
Alvarez played baseball for Team USA at the Summer Olympics and earned a silver medal, which came after he previously took home silver as part of the U.S. 5000m relay speed-skating team for the 2014 Winter Games.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
