MINNEAPOLIS — Alex Kirilloff came to the Minnesota Twins in 2016 as a first-round draft choice, a young man whose ability to hit for both average and power won him the organization's Minor League Player of the Year just two years later.
On Thursday, Kirilloff announced his retirement at age 26, after a career derailed by a seemingly endless stream of injuries. During the 2024 Twins season the first baseman-outfielder played in just 57 of 162 games due to a lower back injury.
“During my career, I’ve encountered numerous injuries, which led me to search for new ways to overcome the pain constantly. These challenges have taken a toll on me mentally and physically; over time, I’ve realized that my passion for playing the game has shifted," Kirilloff shared in a statement released by the Twins. "Baseball demands an ‘all-in’ approach, something I’ve brought to every season. However, I can no longer give it the total commitment it requires. I’ve always believed that playing this game requires 110% effort, and anything less would not do justice to my teammates, coaches, fans, or the game itself. "
Over his entire career, Kirilloff hit .248 (198-for-799) with 40 doubles, five triples, 27 home runs and 116 RBI in 249 games across four seasons for the Twins. He made his major league debut for Minnesota on September 30, 2020, in Game 2 of the American League Wild Card Series against the Houston Astros. Kirilloff went 1-for-4, becoming the first player in American League/National League history to record a Postseason hit before recording one in the regular season.
His hitting stroke was tantalizing, but the Pennsylvania native simply could not stay healthy. He had surgery not once, but twice for a problem with his wrist, and underwent a shoulder procedure following the 2023 season. The lower back injury that kept him off the field in 2024 was apparently the final straw.
In his retirement announcement, Kirilloff said he is currently navigating the recovery process for his back, and shared that he is excited to focus more on his family and opportunities off the field.
“I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from my wife, family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, and fans throughout my career. There are so many people to thank, and I will personally thank them. Your belief in me made all the difference, and I will be forever grateful. I’d like to thank the Minnesota Twins for giving me an opportunity. The things I was able to experience, I’ll be able to take with me the rest of my life.
"While this next chapter won’t take place on the field, my story is far from over,” he concluded.