On Sunday is Jay Bruce’s last game as a Yankee and big league player.
The 34-year old outfielder / first baseman retires after Sunday’s game against the Rays, he announced on Sunday-morning and marked the end of a 14-year career in the Dutch big league.
“The reason I ultimately chose to do this is because for over 13 years playing pretty much every day, I’ve set a standard for what I expected of myself from a performance standpoint – or at least feel that level,” said Bruce “I know there are ups and downs and ebbs and flows throughout a season and a career.
“But in the end I felt that I could not perform at the level that I expected of myself. It just wasn’t in the cards to do what I had to do. It’s hard, but I’m at peace with it. “
Bruce said his decision came into the picture about a week ago and asked to speak with manager Aaron Boone on Friday to let him know. After signing with the Yankees in a minor league deal in February, Bruce had won a job in spring practice, but went 4-for-34 with a homerun in 10 games. He started the first eight games of the season at first base, but was recently removed from the line-up.
The three-time All-Star, a 2005 first round by the Reds out of high school in Beaumont, Texas, was available for Sunday’s game, although Boone said he had no set plan on getting him to a final. to send.
“It’s bittersweet, but I’ve always been honest with myself,” said Bruce, who has 319 home runs. “I have always really tried to look in the mirror and be very honest, whether it was positive or negative. Throughout my career, I have tried not to soften myself. Everyone stops playing baseball at some point. I’ve been so lucky to have had the career I’ve had. I don’t take it for granted. There are so many people I have to thank.
“In the end, I am proud of what happened, what I have achieved. I have no idea what’s next, but I know I love baseball and will always love it. So we’ll see what happens. “
Bruce, who also spent three seasons with the Mets, said he was grateful to wear a Yankees uniform before calling it a career.
“Obviously he started back in Cincinnati and ended here, it was a great run for him,” Boone said. “He has been a real pro with us. I am grateful to have been here near him for the past few weeks. I really wish him the best in the future. But today should be a proud day for him on what has been a very special career for him. “