James Paxton, a former Yankees pitcher beloved by fans, has announced his retirement from professional baseball after the 2024 season. Currently with the Boston Red Sox, the left-hander shared his decision during an interview on the Baseball Isn’t Boring podcast, hosted by Rob Bradford.
“Big Maple” Paxton reflects on career, eyes retirement after 2024
Reflecting on his choice, Paxton said, “It’s tough. I still believe I can compete and help a team win, but my family needs me at home now. I feel a duty to be with them, and I’m looking forward to that time.”
Nicknamed “Big Maple” due to his towering 6’4″ frame and Canadian roots, Paxton made a name for himself as an All-Star pitcher with the Seattle Mariners, particularly excelling in 2017 and 2018. His success prompted the New York Yankees to acquire him in a 2018 trade, sending prospects Justus Sheffield, Dom Thompson-Williams, and Erik Swanson to Seattle.
James Paxton’s first year with the Yankees in 2019 was one of his best seasons. Though he entered the All-Star break with a 5-4 record and a 4.01 ERA, he surged in the second half, posting a 10-2 record, a 3.63 ERA, and a 29.9% strikeout rate. He quickly became the team’s ace, especially crucial due to injuries within the rotation. Paxton’s standout performance came during Game 5 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Houston Astros, where he delivered six innings of one-run ball with nine strikeouts, helping the Yankees extend their postseason run.
Unfortunately, injuries began to take their toll after his stellar 2019 campaign. He pitched only 20.1 innings during the shortened 2020 season, suffering a flexor tendon strain that ended his year. James Paxton became a free agent and returned briefly to the Mariners in 2021, but his season was cut short by Tommy John surgery, keeping him off the field for nearly two years.
In 2024, James Paxton signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and performed well, recording an 8-2 record. However, his 4.43 ERA was less impressive, and the Dodgers designated him for assignment in July. Shortly after, he was traded back to the Red Sox, but another injury—a strained calf—ended his season prematurely.
Though his career has been marred by injuries, James Paxton remains hopeful for one last chance to take the mound, depending on the Red Sox’s playoff performance. “I’m hoping we can make it to the postseason so I can pitch again,” Paxton said. “But after this season, I’m retiring and moving on to the next chapter.”
As the Yankees host the Red Sox for a four-game series, fans may have the opportunity to show their appreciation for “Big Maple” one final time, remembering his grit and contributions, particularly during his standout 2019 season.
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