Are we truly ever ready to say goodbye?
Not in the case of veteran pitcher Zack Greinke. Even after two decades in the league, he’s reportedly not ready to hang up his cleats yet.
According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, citing sources, Greinke wants to return for his 21st year, he’s simply looking for the right fit.
Rosenthal wrote in his latest notes that the Kansas City Royals, Greinke’s first, and most recent team — made additions that more than likely mean he won’t return to the team.
The Royals recently signed Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha.
Rosenthal adds Greinke’s decision shouldn’t hinder his Hall of Fame chances.
Across 20 seasons, Greinke boasts a career 3.49 ERA with 2,979 strikeouts in 3,389 1/3 innings.
During those years, he earned a Cy Young Award in 2009 when he was 25. He led the league with a 2.16 ERA and a 2.33 FIP. He also finished that campaign with 242 strikeouts in 229 1/3 innings.
Additionally, his resume possesses six All-Star selections, six Gold Glove Awards, two Silver Sluggers and he’s held the ERA title two separate times.
And sure, the numbers and accolades speak for themselves, but the guy is unique and unabashedly himself.
So more than anything — that’s what we’re less than prepared to say goodbye to.
About Jessica Kleinschmidt
Jess is a baseball fan with Reno, Nev. roots residing in the Bay Area. She is the host of "Short and to the Point" and is also a broadcaster with the Oakland A's Radio Network. She previously worked for MLB.com and NBC Sports Bay Area.