Colorado Rockies star outfielder Ian Desmond shocked the baseball world late Monday night when he announced on social media he plans to opt out of the 2020 MLB season.
Desmond’s decision involved the need to be around his young and growing family during these most difficult of times. He pointed to ongoing racial tensions in the United States and the widespread pandemic plaguing this country.
What was seemingly a controversial decision now has the backing of at least one teammate.
Colorado Rockies star backs Ian Desmond’s decision to opt out of 2020 season
In talking to the media on Tuesday, Rockies All-Star shortstop Trevor Story backed his teammate’s decision to opt out for the entirety of the 2020 season.
This shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. These decisions are individual in nature. With Desmond expecting another child and having to care for three others, it makes sense that he wants to focus on the family.
Desmond’s in-depth post focusing on racial inequality and the murder of African Americans could not possibly have been met with disdain from those close to him on the Rockies’ roster.
Colorado Rockies sign Matt Kemp to replace Desmond
Earlier on Tuesday, Colorado signed former All-Star outfielder Matt Kemp to replace Desmond on the team’s roster as it prepares for the 2020 season.
From a pure baseball perspective, missing out on someone of Desmond’s skills during a truncated 60-game season is going to hurt.
Desmond, 34, hit .255 with 20 homers, 65 RBI and a .788 OPS for the Rockies last season.
The 2020 MLB regular season is expected to get going July 23. Teams will report to camp this week to prepare for said season.