Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus announced his retirement at Globe Life Field on Friday, signing a one-day contract to retire as a Ranger. The contract was presented to him by former teammate Michael Young, who now serves as Special Assistant to the General Manager.
Andrus celebrated the moment by holding up his jersey alongside former Rangers manager Ron Washington, who is in town managing the Angels this weekend.
Beginning his major league career with Texas in 2009, Andrus quickly became a fan favorite. He was named the AL Rookie of the Year in 2009, earned All-Star honors in 2010 and 2012, and played a crucial role on the Rangers’ World Series teams in 2010 and 2011.
Andrus played with the Rangers until 2020, becoming the team’s all-time leader in stolen bases and finishing second in games played. However, he emphasized that it’s not just the numbers that matter to him. “A lot of people ask me what I’m most proud of, and I say giving everything I had every single day, every single year, and that I had the most fun,” he stated.
After his time in Texas, Andrus had brief stints with the Oakland Athletics and Chicago White Sox. He has not played in the big leagues since 2023, having spent Spring Training with Arizona on a minor league deal.
Andrus and Young will also participate in the ceremonial first pitch before Friday night’s game against the Angels.
