Jason Giambi started his MLB career in 1995 with the Oakland Athletics and after 20-years he has announced his retirement.
Giambi released this statement published by the New York Daily News:
“Ever since I was five years old, all I ever wanted to be was a Major League Baseball player. The Oakland A’s, New York Yankees, Colorado Rockies and Cleveland Indians were a big part of helping that dream come true.”
“To the managers, coaches and players, it’s been a tremendous honor sharing the field with you and thank you very much.”
“To the writers, local and national, and to the broadcasters, I want to express my appreciation to the media for covering the game we all love.”
“I want to thank the fans for being a part of this incredible journey. I especially want to thank the fans that gave me a second chance to let me show you the human being you see today.”
“Lastly, to the game of baseball: I started playing you when I was a kid and I’m leaving you a man. Thank you.”
During Giambi’s 20-year career he had many ups and down lead by his steroid controversy. Giambi admitted to using performance enhancing drugs to a federal grand jury in 2003 which wasn’t released to the public until 2004. He posted a lifetime .277 average, 2,010 hits, 440 home runs and 1,441 RBIs but is he HOF worthy with his questionable legacy?
I personally don’t think he makes it into the HOF. His number are good but not outstanding and with players such as Sammy Sosa, Curt Schilling, Rodger Clemens and Barry Bonds, who have all been linked to PEDS not in the HOF, I feel Giambi has no chance. It’s worth noting that Giambi only had 3 season of 100-hits since 2004, when we learned of his PED use.
HT: BleacherReport