Colorado Rockies OF Ian Desmond Announces He's Opting Out Of Second Straight MLB Season

It's been relatively quiet when it comes to Major League Baseball players opting out for the 2021 campaign due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

One player who has made up his mind already that he won't be on the playing field in 39 days though is Colorado Rockies outfielder Ian Desmond, who announced Sunday he is opting out for 2021.

Desmond announced on Instagram that "for now," he has decided to opt out for the second straight season.

"My desire to be with my family is greater than my desire to go back and play baseball under these circumstances," Desmond wrote.

"I'm going to continue to train and watch how things unfold."

Last year, Desmond opted out for the shortened 60-game season, wanting to be home with his then-pregnant wife and their four other children.

The last two seasons, Desmond has given up a combined $13.56 million. This upcoming season, he was due to make $8 million as well as $5.56 million of his prorated $15 million salary last season.

The Rockies have a $15 million option on Desmond for next season with a $2 million buyout.

"I've let my teammates know, as well as the coaching staff and the front office, and they have all been extremely understanding and supportive," Desmond's post read.

"I wish nothing but the best for the entire Rockies organization and have let them know I am willing to do whatever I can to help them from afar."

The 35-year-old hit .255 with 20 homers, 65 runs batted in and scoring 64 runs playing in 140 games for Colorado in 2019.



















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Matt has been a part of the Cleveland Sports landscape working in the media since 1994 when he graduated from broadcasting school. His coverage beats include the Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Cavaliers. He's written three books, and won the "2020 AP Sports Stringer Lifetime Service Award."