San Diego Padres star pitcher recently addressed the possibility of retiring after the 2025 season.
Padres: Yu Darvish has no concrete retirement plans
According to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Tribune (via San Diego Padres on SI’s Gabe Smallson), Yu Darvish shared his mindset regarding his MLB future:
“Each year, I just focus to play baseball,” Darvish said. “If I feel like I can’t play baseball anymore, then I’m done playing.” Darvish also acknowledged that his family life could play a significant role in his decision to retire:
“I have a lot of kids,” he said. “So I have to see what are we doing now, where are we at and balance with the baseball.”
Padres: Darvish’s still stout despite injuries in 2023-24
Age could be a key factor in Darvish’s decision to retire, as he is 38 and nearing his age-39 season. However, he still appears to have plenty left in the tank.
Despite missing time from May 30 to Sept. 3 of the 2024 season due to a left groin strain, Yu Darvish remained effective when healthy. In 16 starts, he posted a 7-3 record with a 3.31 ERA, 1.065 WHIP, and 78 strikeouts.
Injuries also plagued him in 2023, but the five-time All-Star’s elite arm talent has yet to show signs of decline. As a result, his eventual retirement will be on his own terms. For now, the Padres can expect another strong season from him in 2025 as their No. 3 starter.