Last week, former Kansas City Royals infielder **Mike Moustakas**, affectionately known as “Moose,” announced his intention to sign a **one-day contract** with the Royals to officially retire with the team that drafted him. While his career may not have lived up to the lofty expectations set when he was selected **second overall** in the 2007 MLB Draft, Moustakas left an indelible mark on Royals history, particularly during their **2014 and 2015 postseason runs**.
Drafted out of **Chatsworth Charter High School** in California, Moustakas was part of a pivotal draft class that saw the **Tampa Bay Devil Rays** select **David Price** first overall. Price went on to have a stellar career, but Moustakas became a key figure in the Royals’ resurgence, helping the team reach back-to-back World Series, including their **2015 championship**.
Moustakas debuted in 2011 alongside future Royals stars like **Eric Hosmer**, **Salvador Perez**, and **Lorenzo Cain**. After early struggles, he broke out in **2012**, hitting 20 home runs and showcasing strong defense at third base. However, his performance dipped in **2013 and 2014**, leading to a brief demotion to the minors. But Moustakas rebounded in time for the Royals’ **2014 playoff run**, where he became a postseason hero.
In the **2014 AL Wild Card Game**, Moustakas hit a crucial home run in extra innings to secure a win. He continued his clutch performances throughout the playoffs, including a **game-winning homer** in the ALCS against the Baltimore Orioles and a **diving catch** over the dugout railing that became an iconic moment. Though the Royals fell short in the **2014 World Series**, Moustakas set a franchise record with **five postseason home runs**.
In **2015**, Moustakas revamped his swing, focusing on hitting to the opposite field, and enjoyed a career year. He added another playoff homer in the **ALCS against the Blue Jays**, helping the Royals clinch their second straight World Series appearance and ultimately win the championship.
After the Royals’ glory years, Moustakas continued to contribute, breaking **Steve Balboni’s single-season home run record** in 2017 with **38 homers**. However, his career declined after leaving Kansas City, with stints in Milwaukee, Cincinnati, Colorado, and Los Angeles failing to recapture his earlier success.
Despite his ups and downs, Moustakas’ legacy in Kansas City is secure. He ranks **ninth in Royals history in home runs**, **third in single-season homers**, and **tied for second in postseason home runs**. Known for his fiery leadership and clutch performances, Moustakas played a pivotal role in the Royals’ most successful era.
On **May 31**, Moustakas will sign his one-day contract and retire as a Royal, giving fans a chance to celebrate the man who helped bring a championship back to Kansas City. While he may not be an MLB Hall of Famer, his place in Royals lore is undeniable, and he deserves a standing ovation for the joy he brought to the franchise and its fans.
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