Josh Phegley had been a key part of the Oakland A’s lineup. Although he was a backup catcher for the first four years of his time with the A’s, Phegley emerged as the starter in 2019. However, with top prospect Sean Murphy ready for the majors, Phegley was expendable, signing with the Cubs in free agency.
And now, after eight years in the majors, Phegley is done. He has decided to hang up his cleats for the final time, heading off into retirement.
Our dear friend and treasured client, Josh Phegley, has made the decision to retire from the game he loves. Family considerations and business opportunities factored into his decision. We thank you, Phegs, for your loyalty and trust. Love ya, buddy. pic.twitter.com/c0tBxDqssj
— Joseph Bick (@prostarmgmt) February 3, 2021
Josh Phegley was a solid part of the Oakland A’s
Phegley did not get much playing time last year, with just 18 plate appearances in his 11 games. Although he had only one hit, he made the most of it, belting a home run. As it turned out, that homer would be his last hit in the majors.
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Although he spent most of his career as a backup, Phegley did have a solid enough career. He posted a .225/.268/.381 batting line in his 1203 plate appearances, hitting 67 doubles and 35 homers. Defensive metrics were not fond of his work behind the plate, but he did throw out 33% of would be base stealers in his career.
A first round draft choice by the White Sox, Phegley came to Oakland as part of the trade that also brought Marcus Semien and Chris Bassitt into the organization. He spent five years in total with the A’s, easily getting the most action of his career in 2019. He had 342 plate appearances that season, producing a .239/.282/.411 batting line with 12 homers and 18 doubles.
One would have imagined that Phegley would have opportunities this offseason. However, as his agency noted, family and business factors led to his stepping away from the game. While we may not know what those reasons are, Phegley certainly had other avenues open for his future.
Former Oakland A’s catcher Josh Phegley has decided to retire. We wish him the best of luck in the future.