Colorado Rockies outfielder Ian Desmond plans to opt out for the second consecutive season.
The 35-year-old posted his decision on his Instagram story.
“Over the last few months, I’ve had tough conversations. I’ve asked a lot of questions and done a lot of thinking. For now, I’ve decided to opt out of the 2021 season,” he wrote. “My desire to be with my family is greater than my desire to go back and play baseball under these circumstances. I’m going to continue to train and watch how things unfold.”
The two-time All-Star was owed $8 million this year and he would have made $5.56 million of his prorated $15 million salary last year, thus forfeiting $13.56 million over the last two seasons.
In 2019, Desmond hist .255/.310/.479 with 20 home runs and 65 RBI in 140 games.
“I’ve let my teammates know, as well as the coaching staff and the front office, and they have all been extremely understanding and supportive,” he continued. “I wish nothing but the best for the entire Rockies organization and have let them know I am willing to do whatever I can to help them from afar.”
Last year, Desmond – who is biracial – outlined several issues within baseball which included race, sexism, homophobia and more that factored into his decision in addition to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Desmond did not specifically state those reasons this time, although he said in the beginning of his note that he has had “a lot of tough conversations.”
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