The indomitable spirit of the 2021 New York Mets, despite their challenges, remains etched in the memories of fans, and at the heart of those memories is the gritty performance of veteran outfielder Kevin Pillar. That season represents more than just statistics; it embodied a fighting ethos, evident in the Mets contending for the National League East title until the Atlanta Braves took command after the trade deadline.
Pillar, an integral part of the Mets’ “Bench Mob,” emerged as a fan favorite after enduring a frightening hit by a pitch to his face, yet impressively missing only a brief period of gameplay. Now, at 35 years old and with a decade of MLB service under his belt assuring him a pension, Pillar is eyeing retirement post the 2024 season, adding a poignant chapter to his career.
The journey hasn’t been without its ups and downs. Pillar began this season with a struggle at the plate, posting a .160 average in 32 plate appearances for the Chicago White Sox, which led to a quick release.
However, a turnaround came with his stint at the Los Angeles Angels, where he significantly improved, batting .305/.360/.516 with six home runs and 26 RBIs in 139 plate appearances. Despite the Angels not being in playoff contention, Pillar’s performance might just earn him a spot with a contender late this season.
Reflecting on his year with the Mets, Pillar’s numbers were not flashy, but his role grew in importance due to numerous injuries among regular players. His 124 games nearly matched the appearances of stalwarts like Francisco Lindor and Michael Conforto, underscpring how crucial he was amid adversities.
Post-Mets, Pillar’s professional journey has seen high and low tides. His limited MLB appearances in 2022 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, contrasted with a strong showing in Triple-A, demonstrated his resilience and capacity to bounce back. This pattern continued into 2023, mirroring his contributions similar to his 2021 Mets season, providing reliable depth for the Atlanta Braves, albeit in a reduced role.
→ Swipe to see more articles
As Pillar navigates the latter stages of his career, the prospect of retirement looms, but not without aspirations of finishing strong, possibly with another team this season that can utilize his veteran presence in a playoff run.
While the Mets currently gear up without him, Pillar’s potential final chapter in MLB remains unwritten. Fans and adversaries alike might humorously wish him a spirited farewell and a poignant, albeit opposing, World Series defeat. Kevin Pillar’s legacy, characterized by resilience and determination, ensures he’ll be remembered as a player who gave his all every time he stepped onto the field.
