Cleveland Guardians

Napoli announces retirement after 12-year MLB career

Published Dec. 8, 2018 6:33 p.m. ET

Mike Napoli has announced his retirement after 12 years in the majors that included three trips to the World Series.

The 37-year-old Napoli, who did not play last season because of a knee injury, announced his decision Saturday on Twitter .

Napoli batted .246 with 267 homers and 744 RBIs over 1,392 games with the Los Angeles Angels, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians. He entered the majors as a catcher before switching to first base.

He had his best season in 2016 when he helped lead the Indians to the World Series. Napoli set career highs with 34 homers and 101 RBIs and was invaluable as a clubhouse leader for manager Terry Francona.

He helped Boston win the Series in 2013 and reached the Fall Classic with the Rangers in 2011. Napoli was an All-Star in 2012.