Marcus Wilson, a former outfield prospect for the Red Sox, announced his retirement from professional baseball via social media on Sunday. In an Instagram post, he expressed gratitude to specific individuals from the Red Sox, as well as coaches from the Diamondbacks and Mariners organizations. Wilson also thanked his family, including his mother, wife, and daughter, before revealing his intention to pursue a career in mixed martial arts.
“I’ve had a lot of time to digest everything that’s been going on and I feel good about my decision so going forward if you ever wanna hit me up don’t be weird about it I’m really fine lol!” Wilson wrote. “I’m excited for my new journey I’m going to be taking up martial arts and ever since 2020. I’ve been extremely fascinated with the sport and finally excited to get to do martial arts! Peace and love everybody. Thank you.”
Wilson, aged 27, was drafted by the Diamondbacks in the 2014 amateur draft from Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, California. After forgoing his commitment to Arizona State University, he signed with the Diamondbacks for $1 million. He showcased his talent as an outfield prospect in Arizona’s farm system before being traded to the Red Sox in April 2019.
Despite bouncing between High-A Salem and Double-A Portland in his first season with the Red Sox, Wilson concluded the year on a positive note with the Sea Dogs. He was subsequently added to Boston’s 40-man roster in November to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.
Following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Wilson spent time at the Sox’ alternate training site before joining Triple-A Worcester the following spring. After a brief stint with the Mariners, he returned to Tacoma for the start of the 2022 season before earning his first major-league call-up in late June. Wilson appeared in three games for the Mariners before being designated for assignment and eventually electing free agency at the end of the year.
Wilson returned to the Red Sox on a minor-league contract for the 2023 season but was limited to 37 games with the WooSox before being released. Throughout his career, Wilson demonstrated versatility as an outfielder and accrued impressive stats in the minor leagues, though he ultimately decided to retire from professional baseball.
