The late 2000s and early 2010s Cleveland Guardians (then Indians) were a rebuilding team.
They made the League Championship Series in 2007 and were a powerhouse that year.
After that, they didn’t return to the playoffs until 2013, Terry Francona’s first season at the helm.
From 2006 until 2012, South Korean star Shin-Soo Choo was one of the team’s best players in what was a fun roster despite not really contending from 2008-12.
The reliable outfielder had some outstanding campaigns in Cleveland and left for Cincinnati in 2013 (it was, in reality, in late 2012) via trade.
Among others, Trevor Bauer landed in Cleveland in that transaction.
Choo had been playing the last four seasons in his native South Korea, for the SSG Landers.
It had been revealed, last December, that the 2024 campaign would be his last.
Well, it’s now official: an excellent player is calling it quits and the Guardians sent him some love via their official X account.
“Shin-Soo Choo has hung the spikes up for the final time. Congrats on a great career and thanks for all the memories here!” they wrote.
Shin-Soo Choo has hung the spikes up for the final time.
Congrats on a great career and thanks for all the memories here!#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/ShbOyoWDwE
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) October 2, 2024
Because of an injury, Choo couldn’t be a part of that 2007 postseason run with his teammates.
He was, however, a great Guardian for the time he was on the team.
In parts of seven seasons with Cleveland, Shoo slashed an impressive .292/.383/.469 with 83 home runs, 372 RBI, and a rock-solid .853 OPS.
He was 14th in the 2010 American League MVP race and was a consistent on-base threat with power and speed.
The game will miss him, and Cleveland baseball fans will remember his contributions.
NEXT: Guardians Manager Has Important Message For His Players Ahead Of Postseason Journey
