Dave Winfield, a Hall of Famer inducted in 2001, announced his retirement from the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) on Monday.
The decision marks the end of a remarkable chapter in both baseball and the union’s history. MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark shared a heartfelt statement acknowledging Winfield’s incredible contributions. Clark emphasized that Winfield’s impact went beyond his impressive baseball career, which included his rise from the University of Minnesota to stardom with the San Diego Padres. His career was rooted in a belief in the collective strength of players, which led him to play an active role in shaping the MLBPA into what it is today.
Over a 22-year career, Winfield posted a .283 batting average with 465 home runs and 1,833 RBIs. A 12-time All-Star, he also delivered the game-winning hit in the 1992 World Series clinching Game 6 as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays.