NEW YORK — More than 20,000 fans filled Citi Field to witness a farewell that went far beyond a simple exhibition game.
Robinson Cano, the eight time All Star and 2009 World Series champion with the Yankees, appeared on the field for what is expected to be his final game on American soil.
The 43 year old second baseman could not hold back tears as he received a long standing ovation during the “Showdown” exhibition between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.
Yankees connection runs deep
The tribute game became far more emotional than anyone expected. Cano started at second base and hit third, roles he owned during his long career. His final exit brought the crowd to its feet. Former Mets infielder Luis Castillo walked beside Cano as he left the field for the last time. The ovation continued as Cano wiped his eyes.
“This will be a day that will hold a place in my heart,” Cano said after the game.
The moment brought back memories for Yankees fans who watched him star in the Bronx for nine seasons.
Cano spent the first nine years of his major league career with the Yankees from 2005 to 2013. He became one of the most dependable second basemen in baseball during that time. His smooth left handed swing and steady defense helped the Yankees win the 2009 World Series. That title cemented his place in Yankees history.
The native of San Pedro de Macoris earned five All Star selections with the Yankees. He won two Gold Glove Awards and a Silver Slugger Award while wearing pinstripes. Yankees fans still recall his steady production and his ability to deliver in big postseason moments.
When Cano left the Yankees after the 2013 season to sign a long term deal with the Seattle Mariners, it marked the end of an era. But his impact in New York never faded. His role in helping the Yankees secure their 27th championship remains a major part of his legacy.
Robinson Cano – Awards Table
| Year | Award | Team |
| 2006 | Silver Slugger (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2010 | Gold Glove (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2010 | Silver Slugger (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2011 | Silver Slugger (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2012 | Gold Glove (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2012 | Silver Slugger (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2013 | Silver Slugger (2B) | New York Yankees |
| 2009 | World Series Champion | New York Yankees |
| 2017 | All-Star Game MVP | Seattle Mariners |
Not a retirement, but recognition
The emotional scene at Citi Field led many to believe Cano was announcing his retirement. He quickly explained that was not the case. Cano said he still hopes for a chance to play again.
“It’s not a retirement from baseball, but a tribute,” Cano said.
He spoke openly about the challenges older players face. He mentioned “the challenges players face after turning 35” and how those realities pushed him away from the major league level. Even so, he still hopes another opportunity will come.
The idea for the tribute came from Erik Almonte, president of the National Federation of Dominican Players. Almonte contacted Cano and arranged the special ceremony. Cano said the recognition meant the world to him.
“As a player, looking back and having this kind of tribute or recognition is an honor and means a lot to me,” he said.
Honoring Caribbean baseball excellence
The event honored more than Cano. It also celebrated former slugger Carlos Delgado, creating a tribute for two of the Caribbean’s most accomplished players. Members of the Dominican team wore jackets featuring Cano’s number 24. The gesture moved Cano to tears as he acknowledged the crowd.
Cano was born on October 22, 1982, in San Pedro de Macoris, a Dominican town famous for producing major league talent. His polished swing, calm demeanor and confidence in tight situations made him popular with Yankees fans and supporters across baseball.
Across 17 major league seasons, Cano built a career few second basemen can match. He collected more than 2,600 hits and hit 335 home runs. He maintained a career batting average above .300. He earned eight All Star selections and two Gold Glove Awards. He stayed productive across nearly two decades despite the physical demands of the position.
Career spanning two New York teams
Cano’s connection to New York extended past his time with the Yankees. After leaving Seattle, he returned to the city when the Mets acquired him in a major trade. He played for the Mets in 2019 and 2020. Even though injuries and suspensions complicated his later years, he remained a well known figure in New York sports.
Fans remember the smooth way he turned double plays and the power he displayed with his left handed swing. His ability to perform for both New York teams added to the emotion of his final appearance at Citi Field.
The tribute at Mets’ home brought together elements of Cano’s entire career. It acknowledged his achievements with the Yankees, his years with the Mets and his role in representing Dominican baseball on the global stage.
Robinson Cano – Seasonal averages
| Year | Team | Batting Avg | Home Runs | Key Notes |
| 2009 | Yankees | .320 | 25 | 204 hits, 85 RBI, major role in championship season |
| 2011 | Yankees | .302 | 28 | One of his most complete offensive seasons |
| 2012 | Yankees | .313 | 33 | 48 doubles, 94 RBI, MVP-caliber year |
| 2013 | Yankees | .314 | 27 | Final strong season before leaving for Seattle |
| 2014 | Mariners | .314 | 14 | High batting average in first year with new club |
| 2016 | Mariners | .298 | 39 | Career-high home run total |
| 2017 | Mariners | .280 | 23 | All-Star Game MVP season |
| 2019 | Mets | .256 | 13 | Injuries impacted performance |
| 2020 | Mets | .316 | 10 | Strong showing in shortened season |
| 2022 | Mets/Padres/Braves | .150 | 1 | Final MLB season with limited action |
A farewell that resonated
As Cano stepped off the field, the applause echoed throughout the stadium. The reaction confirmed how much he meant to Yankees fans, Mets fans and supporters from across the baseball world. Whether Cano plays again or not, his career remains one of the most accomplished among modern second basemen.
For the Yankees, his legacy is clear. Cano helped deliver a championship, earned multiple honors and became one of the most reliable hitters of his era. His farewell at Citi Field served as a reminder of what he brought to the game and how much respect he earned along the way.
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