MLB analyst and three-time All-Star outfielder/first baseman John Kruk is leaving ESPN after 12 years.
“ESPN and I have mutually agreed to part ways. I can’t thank them enough for all they have done for me and my family,” Kruk tweeted Monday.
“I will continue to pursue TV opportunities so I can continue covering the game I love,” he said, before adding that he was also thinking of becoming a fitness instructor. “Sick of all these people that are in good shape!” he joked.
In a statement to The Big Lead, the network confirmed Kruk’s departure, saying: “ESPN and John Kruk have mutually agreed to end our relationship at this time. We’re thankful to John for his memorable contributions to our baseball coverage over the years – a run which included roles on our signature MLB franchises ‘Sunday Night Baseball’ and ‘Baseball Tonight.’
“We wish John all the best.”
Kruk retired from playing baseball in 1995 following a 10-year career with the Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres and the Chicago White Sox, in which he posted a .300 batting average with 100 home runs and 592 runs batted in.
After serving as a TV and radio analyst for Comcast SportsNet and WPEN-AM and a contributor to Fox Sports Net’s “The Best Damn Sports Show Period” from 2001 through 2003, Kruk joined ESPN in 2004.
See his tweets below.
ESPN and I have mutually agreed to part ways. I can't thank them enough for all they have done for me and my family.
— John Kruk (@JohnKruk) October 4, 2016
Although I was there for 12+ years the friendships I made there will last a lifetime.
— John Kruk (@JohnKruk) October 4, 2016
I will continue to pursue TV opportunities so I can continue covering the game I love
— John Kruk (@JohnKruk) October 4, 2016
Thinking about becoming a fitness instructor…sick of all these people that are in good shape!
— John Kruk (@JohnKruk) October 4, 2016
This just gives me more time to train for a triathlon!
— John Kruk (@JohnKruk) October 4, 2016