Jesse Chavez, a 40-year-old right-handed pitcher coming off a successful stint with the Atlanta Braves, recently revealed his plan to retire after the upcoming 2024 season. Having enjoyed a 16-year career in the major leagues, Chavez expressed his intention to exit the sport on his terms, emphasizing the desire to remain healthy.
Drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 42nd round of the 2002 MLB Draft, Chavez embarked on a journey that saw him play for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays, and Oakland Athletics. His tenure with the Athletics showcased a solid performance, with a record of 17-27, a 3.98 ERA, a 1.325 WHIP, and a 2.5 WAR.
Chavez’s career took him to various destinations, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, Rangers, and Chicago Cubs. A two-year return to the Texas Rangers marked a stabilizing phase, and a resurgent 2021 with the Braves reaffirmed his capabilities. Despite a challenging start to 2022 with the Cubs and Angels, Chavez found his rhythm back with the Braves and continued his contributions in the 2023 season.
His Braves career boasts a record of 10-7, a 3.08 ERA, a 1.184 WHIP, and a 3.1 WAR. In the last season alone, Chavez showcased impressive stats, going 1-0 with a 1.56 ERA, a 1.096 WHIP, and a 1.4 WAR, with a strikeout rate of 10.1 batters per nine innings.
As the upcoming 2024 season approaches, Chavez’s future destination remains uncertain, but his decision to retire adds a significant chapter to his decades-spanning MLB journey. Over the course of his career, Chavez has earned approximately $23.8 million in salary.