Veteran right-hander Collin McHugh has officially hung up his baseball cleats, announcing his retirement from the game after a career spanning 11 MLB seasons. The 36-year-old pitcher, who accumulated over nine years of big league service, took to Instagram to share his heartfelt farewell:
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“I was never the best player on any team I played for,” McHugh wrote. “Including my 7th-grade church league team, on which I played catcher. I never did travel baseball. I went to a small private high school and a small NAIA college. I got drafted in the 18th round by the Mets, most likely as a favor to my college coach. I threw 90 mph. I was NEVER supposed to make it out of A ball. 16 years later, it’s finally time for me to hang ’em up. And as cringey as it might sound, I’m proud of myself. Proud that I didn’t give up.”
McHugh’s journey in professional baseball was far from conventional. He wasn’t considered a top prospect and had humble beginnings with the New York Mets in 2012, where he struggled in his rookie season. He was traded to the Rockies, but his woes continued there. However, it was his move to the Houston Astros in 2013 that changed the trajectory of his career.
The Astros saw potential in McHugh’s high spin rate on his curveball and believed that with some adjustments, he could become a valuable asset. Their confidence was well-placed, as McHugh broke out in 2014, posting a stellar 2.74 ERA in 154 2/3 innings. He followed that up with a career-high 203 2/3 innings in 2015 and earned a reputation as a reliable starter.
McHugh’s time in Houston also saw him transition to a reliever in 2018, where he continued to excel. His versatility and performance on the mound made him a key figure for the Astros, even earning him a World Series ring in 2017.
After departing from Houston, McHugh had stints with the Red Sox, Rays, and a homecoming with the Braves in 2021. His final season with the Braves saw him throw 128 innings with a 3.38 ERA.
In total, McHugh leaves behind a career record of 71-47, 46 holds, and one save. He accumulated 967 strikeouts against 280 walks and contributed 27 innings of postseason performance. McHugh’s contributions to the game were valued highly, earning him just under $27 million in earnings.
While his playing days may be over, McHugh’s statement about being “around the game forever” suggests that he may continue to make an impact in baseball in a different capacity. We wish him the best in his future endeavors, whatever they may be.