In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians) were focused on rebuilding their team. They reached the League Championship Series in 2007, showcasing their strength that year, but didn’t make another playoff appearance until 2013, which was Terry Francona’s first season as manager.
During the rebuilding years from 2006 to 2012, South Korean star Shin-Soo Choo was one of the standout players on the roster, which remained entertaining even while they struggled to compete. Choo enjoyed several strong seasons in Cleveland before being traded to Cincinnati in late 2012. That trade also brought Trevor Bauer to the Guardians.
Choo had been playing for the SSG Landers in South Korea for the past four seasons. It was announced last December that 2024 would be his final season, and it has now been confirmed that he is officially retiring. The Guardians shared their appreciation for him on their official X account, stating, “Shin-Soo Choo has hung up the spikes for the final time. Congrats on a great career and thanks for all the memories here!”
Choo missed the 2007 postseason due to injury, but he made a significant impact during his time with the team. Over seven seasons in Cleveland, he posted impressive stats: a .292 batting average, .383 on-base percentage, .469 slugging percentage, 83 home runs, and 372 RBIs, along with a solid .853 OPS. He ranked 14th in the 2010 American League MVP voting and was known for being a consistent threat on the bases with both power and speed. His contributions to the game will be missed, and Cleveland baseball fans will fondly remember him.
