DENVER — Charlie Blackmon, the beloved outfielder of the Colorado Rockies, announced his retirement on Monday following 14 years with the team.
Chuck Nazty, as he's lovingly called, was drafted by the Rockies with the 72nd overall pick in 2008 and has spent his entire career in the Mile High City. According to the team, his 14-season Major League career with the Rockies is the second-most in franchise history, trailing only Todd Helton.
"I have been blessed to call the city of Denver and The Colorado Rockies my baseball home for the entirety of my career. I am grateful for the support of this organization, my teammates, and most of all Rockies fans. It is with a thankful heart and a career's worth of memories that I choose a new path," Blackmon said in a social media post announcing his retirement.
Known for his iconic beard and catchy walk-up song by The Outfield, the 4-time All-Star has left his mark on the team. Blackmon, 38, has 1,797 hits, 226 home runs and 797 RBIs.
In his announcement, Blackmon thanked his family, including his wife, Ashley, and their children.
"I don't know what is on the other side of the fence, but I take solace in knowing one thing remains constant. Although names and faces will change, the game will continue to be played," Blackmon said. "I'll hop over that fence, pickle the beast and embrace the next phase of my life."
Rockies owner, chairman and chief executive officer Dick Monfort called Blackmon "one of the greatest Rockies of all time" and said he will "continue to be a part of this team in a multitude of ways going forward."
“When Charlie told me of his plans to retire I got a little emotional, as I’m sure many fans will when they see the news that one of the greatest Rockies of all time will no longer take the field,” said Monfort in a statement. “It has been an absolute privilege watching Charlie’s career from start to finish here at Coors Field. Charlie’s passion and dedication to the game of baseball, this organization and our great fans was on display every single day and I can’t thank him enough for pouring his heart into every game and every at-bat over the course of his 14 years here. Charlie is a Rockie to his core, and although his playing days are over, he will continue to be a part of this team in a multitude of ways going forward. We look forward to celebrating Charlie throughout this weekend and we wish Charlie and his family nothing but the best in the years ahead.”
The Rockies will honor Blackmon during their last games of the season on Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29 at Coors Field. The first 20,000 fans to Saturday's game will receive a free t-shirt and a pre-game ceremony will be held before Sunday's first pitch.
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