A versatile defender and a speedy runner, Whit Merrifield played nine years with four different clubs. He was most known for his time with the Royals, where he spent parts of seven years.

Whit Merrifield called Kansas City a “second home to my family and I” in announcing his retirement on Tuesday. Merrifield spent parts of his first seven major league seasons with the Royals, starting in 2016. He played second base most of his nine-year career, including stops with the Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves.

Three-time All-Star Whit Merrifield, who led Major League Baseball in hits during the 2018 and 2019 seasons, has announced his retirement.