Former Atlanta Braves outfielder Kevin Pillar has announced his retirement after struggling to find a landing spot in the 2025 season. It has been an impressive career for a veteran who will be remembered for his elite glove. Pillar spent time with the Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, Colorado Rockies, New York Mets, Los Angeles Angels, Chicago White Sox, and the Texas Rangers in his career. The outfielder's time with Atlanta came in the 2023 season in a depth role when the Braves were dealing with injury and production concerns. Pillar was a surprisingly solid contributor and became a popular reserve option who made a real impact on the team's success.
While it is sad to see the outfielder walk away, it makes sense at this stage of his career. Pillar is a career .255 hitter but hasn't been anywhere close to this mark in recent seasons. While the defense is still great, the offensive production has taken a step in the wrong direction. This has limited the veteran to depth roles or minor league deals with teams hoping the veteran can turn back the clock. Since this hasn't been the case, Pillar is opting to go out on his own terms rather than attempt to continue his career.
Former Braves' Outfielder Kevin Pillar Retires
A piece of what makes this career so impressive is the fact that the outfielder was a draft afterthought, being selected in the 32nd round of the 2011 draft. For a player this low not only to make the big leagues but to go on to have over a decade-long career is quite the accomplishment. One that deserves celebrating, even if the veteran wasn't lighting up the league offensively.
For the Braves, it is yet another possible depth piece that is off the market as the team continues to search for answers. The return of Jurickson Profar did offer some promising early results, with the outfielder starting a late rally and adding a late homer. Still, it wouldn't be surprising to see the front office add depth if the opportunity arises.
Despite Pillar's time in Atlanta being brief, Braves fans appreciate his contributions and will remember the veteran's tenure fondly, wishing Pillar luck in whatever comes next.