Michael Young retires

Third baseman Michael Young has retired from baseball at the age of 37, according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports. Rosenthal notes that Young had three offers, including one from the Dodgers, to continue playing in 2014, but he would like to spend more time with his family. Young will retire as a Ranger, who will hold a press conference for him tomorrow at 4 PM in Texas. 

Young was originally chosen by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 5th round of the 1997 draft. In 2000, the California native was traded to the Texas Rangers, where he spent 13 years with the club, before finishing his career out with the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers. Young is a lifetime .300 hitter; he has tallied 2,375 hits. The seven-time all star also won the batting title in 2005, and has led the league in hits in 2005 and 2011. Before retiring, Young was 8th-highest active player in hits and 16th-highest in batting average. 

Young was the face of the Rangers for a long time - his leadership and personality were unmatched and he is known as one of the "classiest" players in the game today. Young will not only be missed by the Rangers organization and fans, but by baseball fans everywhere. His heart, hustle, and attitude was one of the best in the game. He not only was a good player, but he played the game the right way. 

It's hard to know if Young will make the Hall of Fame, but he will definitely be considered. Personally, I believe he should go in to the Hall for his heart, hustle, and leadership. He was a great player as well. I just do not know if the writers feel the same way about him. He never reached 3,000 hits and never really got to a Hall of Fame "standard." But, his longetivity was amazing, and his heart was right with it. Best of luck in retirement, Michael Young.