Credit: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Martinez Martinez/U.S. Navy
Major League Baseball’s Sean Doolittle, who has roots in Newtown, announced his retirement last week.
Doolittle is bringing an end to an 11-year major league career.
The two-time All-Star reliever, known not only for his skills on the field but also for his charitable endeavors, revealed his decision via a social media post.
Doolittle shared with his fans that he had a “full heart … after 11 incredible seasons playing the sport I love.”
Doolittle, whose father lives in Newtown, played a pivotal role in the Washington Nationals’ World Series win.
Doolittle told fans, “I don’t have the words to tell you how grateful I am for your support during my time here in DC.”
Doolittle played for the Oakland Athletics, Cincinnati Reds, Seattle Mariners and in the minor leagues. The Doolittle name is familiar in baseball circles because his brother, Ryan, also played professional baseball.
Off the field, Doolittle earned acclaim for his charitable initiatives. Throughout his career, he supported military veterans, LGBTQ charities, and refugee families.
On social media, he has been an advocate for independent bookstores.
While Doolittle garnered press and praise for his sportsmanship and charity, he wasn’t without his share of controversy. The star faced criticism for openly condemning then-candidate Donald Trump’s comments on groping women without their consent. Doolittle’s membership with the Democratic Socialists of America also drew a strong reaction from some in the public.
