Miguel Rojas Second Guesses Year-End Retirement Decision

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Miguel Rojas initially planned to retire after the 2026 season, but he may reconsider and extend his career. "It’s been a wild ride," Rojas said to Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain after the Dodgers secured the NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies last October. He had committed to retiring after the 2026 season, and the Dodgers had signed him to a one-year deal with a player development role for after his retirement.

However, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Rojas may have second thoughts, and it’s possible he’ll stay longer before transitioning to a coaching or front office position.

Rojas will be 38 years old by the start of the 2027 season, but he remains capable of playing in MLB. He has reiterated that his decision to retire for one more year wasn’t due to concerns about his playing ability, stating, "I can still play. I can prepare to go and play shortstop for 100 games."

Throughout the season, Rojas has demonstrated his worth, posting a .744 OPS through 79 games, which ranks as his second-highest OPS in a single season. His defensive skills have also been exceptional, with his four-outs-above-average rating placing him in the 86th percentile of MLB, and a plus-2 fielding run value.

Apart from baseball, family considerations are also driving Rojas’ decision. "He asks me, did you watch me play? I say yes, but I want to be there for him," Rojas said of his son, Aaron. "That’s what my parents did for me." He feels it's time to prioritize family, ensuring he can be there for his son, just as his parents were for him.