Saying goodbye

Vladimir Guerrero in 1996 with Class AA Harrisburg (David Schofield photo)

Vladimir Guerrero, arguably the greatest prospect to summer on Harrisburg's City Island since the place first opens for baseball 135 years ago in 1890, formally announces his retirement 12 years ago today.

Guerrero last plays in the major leagues in 2011 as the Baltimore Orioles’ designated hitter.

He finishes his 16-year career in the majors with a .318 batting average, 449 home runs, 1,496 runs batted in, the 2004 American League MVP trophy, nine All-Star Game appearances, eight Silver Slugger awards and a clear path to the Hall of Fame in 2018.

Guerrero’s announcement also comes on the 10th anniversary of the first time he hits for the cycle in the majors, when on this date in 2003 he doubles, singles and triples off future Hall of Famer Tom Glavine before homering in his final at-bat against relief pitcher Dan Wheeler in the Expos’ 7-3 victory over the Mets at Montreal's Olympic Stadium.

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