Robinson gets heartwarming ovation in last pro game

Share

Drew Robinson's professional baseball career will end Tuesday, and the Giants outfielder will transition into a mental health advocate role in the front office.

Robinson played his final game for the Sacramento River Cats on Tuesday and received a heartwarming ovation as he walked to the batter's box. Both the River Cats and Round Rock Express exited their dugouts and gave Robinson a standing ovation.

Robinson, 29, survived a suicide attempt and returned to play baseball with the Giants this year. In April of 2020, he shot himself in the head and survived for 20 hours before calling 911. Despite the loss of his right eye, Robinson vowed to come back and play professional baseball. 

He had a successful spring training and was assigned to Triple-A Sacramento. Robinson hit a home run in his fourth game of the season and notched three round-trippers on the comeback.

Robinson struggled on the field and began talking to the Giants about transitioning to a role as a mental health advocate. He announced his retirement from baseball on Instagram on July 16.

"I couldn't be more excited to remain in the game that saved my life," he wrote on Instagram.

San Francisco Giants

Find the latest San Francisco Giants news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.

What Giants' non-roster invitees, led by Eldridge, say about roster

Report: Giants agree to minor league deal with ex-Athletics reliever

"This past season has been a steep learning curve as I’ve prioritized putting in the work mentally and emotionally. While I’m proud of my progress, growth is a continuous journey. For the Giants to believe I can help other players address their emotional well-being more comfortably and gain insight from my lessons learned is truly humbling. I can’t fully describe what these last 15 months have been like, but some of the most rewarding times were persevering through the physical and mental challenges I faced while attempting this comeback. Even more special was the way you all inspired me to keep going. I saw your messages. And I’ve appreciated every single one of them; it’s a beautiful thing to be able to receive people’s most positive energy."

RELATED: Giants minor league review: Ramos promoted to Triple-A

Robinson couldn't have his playing career end without one final highlight, as he made a spectacular diving catch Thursday.

Robinson's playing career might be ending, but his inspirational journey is just beginning as he takes up his new role with the Giants.

Download and follow the Giants Talk Podcast

Contact Us