Nate Orf was the definition of a minor league veteran. Since being signed by the Brewers as an undrafted free agent in 2013, Orf had spent the majority of his professional career in the minors. He did manage to reach the majors for 21 games, getting a cup of coffee with Milwaukee and the Oakland A’s, but he was essentially a minor league depth piece.
That had a chance to change this year. The A’s had Orf listed as the backup at second and third, giving him a chance to join the major league roster. While he likely had an uphill battle, Orf was potentially a part of the A’s plan.
Nate Orf retires from Oakland A’s
However, those plans have changed. On Wednesday, Orf had decided to retire, his seven year professional career coming to an end.
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Orf did not get much of a chance at the major league level. He produced a .071/.188/.179 batting line in his 32 plate appearances, drawing three walks while striking out nine times. While he had just two hits, one of those was a home run, a solo shot on July 4, 2018 that proved to be the game winner in the Brewers 3-2 victory over the Twins.
His minor league career was more notable. Orf produced a solid .295/.391/.435 batting line in 1865 plate appearances at AAA, hitting 28 homers and 99 doubles while stealing 46 bases. He would play literally anywhere he was needed on the diamond, receiving extensive action at second, third, short, and both corner outfield spots.
However, he will be remembered for one day in 2014. Orf appeared at every position during a game with the Brevard County Manatees, the first player in franchise history to do so. Even though he faced just one batter on the mound, he recorded the out, a perfect outing to cap off a memorable day.
Nate Orf has retired from the Oakland A’s. We wish him the best of luck in the future.