Jack Wilson Retires

Wilson earned over $40 million in his career, thanks mostly to stellar defensive play. Image: Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE

Jack Wilson, who was released by the Braves last month, announced his retirement on Tuesday. Speaking with Dejan Kovacevic, Wilson told the Tribune-Review that even after he was let go by Atlanta, the Braves invited him to stay around the team. At age 34, Wilson has decided to call it a career.

"“My wife Julie and our kids and I made that decision together, that this season was going to be my last. We’re retiring officially, right after the Braves win the World Series.”"

Wilson was the starting shortstop for the Pirates from 2001 through mid-2009. He lead the National League in triples in 2004; a year in which he was named to his only All-Star game.

Wilson was an outstanding defensive shortstop, routinely able to turn in highlight-reel plays. Offense was never  strength for him, however, and when the already tedious numbers began to slip over the past few seasons, the market for his services dried up quickly.

Wilson ends his career with 1294 hits and a .265/.306/.366 career line over 12 big league seasons. He never won a Gold Glove, despite his defensive acumen. Ironically, Wilson did win a Silver Slugger award for his work in the 2004 campaign. He was worth 4.1 fWAR that season; the highest total of his career.