Matt Carpenter, a three-time MLB All-Star and longtime infielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, announced his retirement from professional baseball on May 14, 2025, concluding a 14-season career. He made the announcement on the "Get in the Game" podcast, hosted by former teammate Scott Linebrink.

Carpenter, 39, was selected by the Cardinals in the 13th round of the 2009 MLB Draft out of Texas Christian University. He debuted with St. Louis on June 4, 2011, and became a fixture in their lineup over the next decade. His standout season came in 2013 when he led the majors in runs (126), hits (199), and doubles (55) while batting .318. That performance earned him his first All-Star selection and the Silver Slugger Award, making him the first Cardinals second baseman to receive the honor.

Throughout his career, Carpenter demonstrated versatility by playing multiple infield positions, including first base, second base, and third base. He earned additional All-Star selections in 2014 and 2016. After his tenure with the Cardinals, Carpenter had brief stints with the New York Yankees in 2022 and the San Diego Padres in 2023. He returned to St. Louis in 2024, appearing in 59 games during his final season.

Over 1,511 career games, Carpenter compiled a .259 batting average, 179 home runs, and 659 RBIs. He holds the Cardinals' records for most career (24) and single-season (8, in 2018) leadoff home runs. Additionally, he ranks sixth all-time among Cardinals in walks (699) and eighth in game-winning RBIs (73).

Reflecting on his career, Carpenter expressed gratitude for his time with the Cardinals. "I had quite a thrill being able to don the St. Louis Cardinals logo for many years," he said during the podcast.

The Cardinals honored Carpenter on social media, highlighting his contributions both on and off the field. "Congratulations on a great career ... ," the team posted.

Born on November 26, 1985, in Galveston, Texas, Carpenter attended Elkins High School before playing college baseball at TCU. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Mackenzie, and they have two children.

Carpenter's retirement marks the end of an era for the Cardinals, as he was a key figure in the team's successes over the past decade. His contributions on the field and his leadership off the field have left a lasting legacy in St. Louis.