After 13 years in Major League Baseball, Corey Kluber, a two-time winner of the Cy Young award, has decided to hang up his cleats. It marks the end for the hurler who was among the top arms in the league at one time.
Kluber made his debut in 2011 with Cleveland, where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the mound. His pinpoint accuracy, devastating breaking pitches, and unwavering composure made him a nightmare for opposing batters.
The pinnacle of Kluber’s career came in 2014 when he captured his first Cy Young Award, cementing his status as one of the game’s elite pitchers. His dominance continued in 2017 when he once again claimed the prestigious Cy Young honor. These achievements underscored Kluber’s remarkable consistency and ability to perform at the highest level. Kluber also had two top-3 finishes in Cy Young voting in ’16 and ’18. Unsurprisingly, he was named an All-Star both years.
However, despite his early success, Kluber’s later years were marred by injuries and inconsistency. A series of unfortunate setbacks, including a fractured forearm and a strained oblique, limited his playing time and hindered his effectiveness on the mound. Despite these challenges, Kluber remained determined to contribute to his team’s success whenever he took the field.
In 2021, Kluber turned back the clock for a moment. While pitching for the New York Yankees, Kluber recorded a no-hitter on May 19 against his former team the Texas Rangers. Kluber was just one walk away from recording the league’s first perfect game since 2012. While the end of his career was marred by inconsistent play, Kluber flashed his brilliance during that memorable outing.
In addition to his accomplishments, Kluber played an integral role in his team’s postseason runs, delivering clutch performances when it mattered most. His ability to thrive under pressure and rise to the occasion solidified his reputation as a big-game pitcher.
As news of Kluber’s retirement spread throughout the baseball community, tributes poured in from teammates, opponents, and fans alike. Many express their gratitude for the memories he created and the impact he had on the game.
Kluber spent the 2023 season with the Boston Red Sox. He appeared in 15 games and recorded a 7.04 ERA while dealing with various injuries.
