The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking forward to the return of most of its star players, plus some significant additions, as the team looks to capture a third straight World Series championship.
But in the meantime, the team has received news that a former unique contributor is ending his career at a surprisingly young age.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers Utility Player Sends Retirement Message
“You gave me everything, you shaped me into an excellent human being, and you helped me be a blessing to others,” former Dodgers utility option Hanser Alberto wrote in an Instagram post dedicated to his overall baseball career. “18 years later, filled with gratitude and many beautiful memories, I take off my uniform, hang up my glove and cleats, and say goodbye.”
Alberto made his big-league debut with the Texas Rangers in 2015 and played for the Baltimore Orioles and Kansas City Royals before joining the Los Angeles Dodgers for the 2022 season. He slashed .244/.258/.365 in his brief stint with the team, but served as a unique two-way player well before the organization invested a record contract in superstar pitcher and slugger Shohei Ohtani.
Alberto finished 10 games on the mound for the Dodgers in his sole season, in addition to making starts at shortstop, second base, third base and designated hitter and appearing in right field and at first base as well.
Los Angeles Dodgers’ Two-Way Player Hanser Alberto Ends Career At Young Age
After a unique season serving as a spark plug for the Dodgers all over the field and on the mound, Alberto moved on to the Chicago White Sox for the 2023 season in what turned out to be his final big-league opportunity.
“After being dogged by injuries during his time with the White Sox, Alberto missed most of the 2024 campaign and was limited to only playing winter ball,” Nick Deeds wrote for MLB Trade Rumors. “He returned to full-season play in 2025 when he joined the Mexican League’s Piratas de Campeche, and ultimately appeared in 26 games for them (plus an additional one for the Saraperos de Saltillo) before returning to winter ball. He appeared in 24 winter league games during the 2025-26 season for the Gigantes del Cibao but has now called it a career.”
After a successful if limited big-league career, Alberto suddenly ended his career at the young age of 33. It was not immediately clear where he might turn next professionally, but it seems he would have plenty to offer the game in a coaching role, even if his days of taking the infield, outfield, mound and batter’s box are over.
