Hey there! As a longtime baseball fan I‘m sure you remember Jayson Werth. The bearded slugger was a fixture in the MLB outfield for over a decade, starring for the Phillies and Nationals. With his playing days now behind him, I bet you‘re wondering – what is Jayson Werth up to now?
Well friend, let me bring you up to speed on exactly what Werth has been keeping busy with since retiring in 2017. I‘ve done some deep research into his career, stats, business ventures, family life and more. Just grab some snacks, settle in and enjoy this complete guide to Jayson Werth‘s current life after baseball!
Brief Reminder of Werth‘s Standout MLB Career
Before we dive into Werth‘s post-retirement activities, let‘s do a quick recap of his impressive 15-year MLB career.
Drafted by the Orioles in the first round in 1997, Werth bounced around early in his career until finding a home with the Phillies in 2007. From 2008-2010, Werth hit 95 homers and made two All-Star teams as the Phillies won the 2008 World Series.
In December 2010, Werth signed a huge 7-year, $126 million contract with the Washington Nationals. Playing for the Nats from 2011 to 2017, Werth helped lead the franchise to 4 division titles, hitting .267 with 147 home runs.
In total across his MLB career, Werth compiled a .267 batting average, .361 on-base percentage, and .461 slugging, with 229 home runs and 799 RBIs. Though not a Hall of Fame caliber player, he was undoubtedly one of the most productive and consistent outfielders of his era.
Werth Officially Retired from MLB in July 2019
Now let‘s talk about Werth‘s official retirement from Major League Baseball.
After being released by the Mariners in June 2018, Werth caught on with the Giants and Mariners again in 2019 spring training. However, at age 39 he failed to make either roster and was released for a final time in July 2019 by Seattle.
Though Werth never formally announced his retirement, this second release from the Mariners was viewed around MLB as the end of his long professional playing career.
"I‘ve really enjoyed retirement…I‘ve enjoyed being a full-time dad and husband," Werth confirmed in a 2022 interview, erasing any doubts about his status.
So July 2019 can be considered the official conclusion of Werth‘s run in MLB as player. A great career for sure, but what has he been up to since hanging up the spikes?
Staying Involved in Baseball Through Media and Mentorship
Even though Werth is retired from MLB, he‘s found ways to stay closely involved with the game he loves in different capacities.
Offering Expert MLB Analysis for TV and Radio
Leveraging his extensive knowledge and experience, Werth has become an insightful voice on baseball‘s media landscape.
In 2018, shortly after ending his playing career, Werth served as a guest studio analyst on MLB Network‘s MLB Central and ESPN‘s Baseball Tonight. Fans praised his expert breakdowns during the MLB postseason.
Today, Werth still makes occasional appearances on MLB Network as a studio analyst. With his credentials as a recent star player, he brings an invaluable perspective to discussions about the current state of baseball.
Mentoring Young Players in the Nationals System
Beyond media, Werth has also stayed involved by mentoring the next generation of MLB stars.
In May 2019, less than a year after his final game, the Washington Nationals brought back Werth as Special Assignment Scout and Player Development Consultant. In this advisory role, Werth evaluates young Nats players and offers them guidance as they climb through the minor leagues.
For top prospects like Juan Soto and Victor Robles, learning from a proven veteran like Werth has been invaluable. His insights have helped accelerate their development into MLB stars.
"I‘m excited to just learn, be a student of the game from the other side and see if this is something I‘d like to pursue," Werth said of his new mentee position.
Calling Washington D.C. Area Home with Wife and 4 Kids
In his playing days, Werth suited up for the Phillies, Dodgers, Blue Jays and others. But he‘s continued calling Washington D.C. home since signing with the Nationals in 2011.
Werth currently resides in Arlington, Virginia with his wife Kelley and their 4 children – daughters Lexi and Payton, and step-sons Colton and Slade.
Though born in Illinois, it seems Werth and his family have developed an affinity for the DMV area from his seven great years playing in the nation‘s capital.
"This area means more to me and my family than just being a ballplayer," Werth told The Fan radio station. Settling down in the Virginia suburbs has allowed Werth to focus on the most important role of his life – being a full-time husband and dad.
Werth‘s Life at 44: Embracing the Next Chapter After MLB
With his playing days fading and family life taking priority, Werth celebrated his 44th birthday on May 20th, 2022.
How‘s the former star adjusting to retired life at middle age? Based on a recent interview, it seems Werth has fully embraced moving on to the next chapter after his MLB career.
“I’ve really enjoyed retirement…I’ve enjoyed being a full-time dad and husband,” Werth told NBC Sports Washington.
Though he may miss stepping between the lines, Werth appears content leaving baseball in the past and enjoying new opportunities away from the game.
Charity Work: Continuing Community Outreach Post-Retirement
Giving back through charity work has long been important to Jayson Werth. His primary organization is the Jayson Werth Chondroplasia Fund, started in 2004 to provide resources for people with dwarfism.
During and after his playing days, Werth has hosted numerous golf tournaments and fundraising events to further his cause. In 2012, he and his teammates helped raise over $400,000 for the Chondroplasia fund through NatsFest.
So even in retirement, Werth continues his community outreach and fundraising efforts to support this personal passion project. It‘s a testament to his character that he remains so involved despite his MLB career being over.
By The Numbers: Jayson Werth‘s Career MLB Stats and Achievements
Now that we‘ve covered Werth‘s recent life, let‘s crunch some numbers and look back statistically on his exceptional 15 years in the big leagues:
- 1,612 games played
- .267 batting average, .361 on-base percentage
- 229 home runs, 799 RBIs, 113 stolen bases
- 548 doubles, 108 triples, 1,319 hits
- 2008 World Series Champion with Phillies
- 5-time NL All-Star (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014)
- Led National League in doubles in 2008 (46)
- Led league in pitches per plate appearance 2010, 2011, 2012
- Had 105 RBI season in 2010
- 4 division titles with the Nationals
- 2017 Silver Slugger Award
Werth was always praised for his patient and selective approach at the plate. His ability to draw walks, work deep counts and get on base made him valuable even when not hitting for high average.
Defensively, he was sure-handed in right field and won the 2008 Phillies defensive player of the year award.
Overall, you‘d have to say Werth‘s stats and accolades cemented his status as one of the best all-around outfielders of the 2000s and early 2010s.
Where Does Werth Rank Historically Among Right Fielders?
Based on Wins Above Replacement (WAR), Werth‘s career stacks up as follows compared to the all-time greats at his position:
- 5.4 WAR per season, 34.4 career WAR
- Ranks #73 all-time among right fielders
- Well below average Hall of Fame right fielder (58.1 career WAR)
- Higher WAR than non-Hall of Famers like Paul O‘Neill (21.2) and Dave Parker (39.9)
So realistically, while a very good player for many years, Werth falls just short of being considered an elite, Hall-worthy right fielder. His longevity and peak performance can‘t quite match legends like Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Stan Musial and others.
But with almost 1,400 hits, over 200 home runs, and a World Series ring, Werth should still be remembered as one of the better all-around right fielders of his era.
Werth‘s Legacy: Gritty Competitor Who Played the Game Right
More than just stats, Jayson Werth will be remembered for bringing intensity and passion to every game throughout his career. He always hustled, got his uniform dirty, and left it all on the field.
Werth also earned respect for adapting his game as he aged. As injuries and age sapped his speed and power post-2010, he became more selective and focused on getting on base however he could.
He‘ll always be associated with his trademark shaggy beard look in Philly, which eventually gave way to a more clean-cut style in Washington.
Most of all, Werth will be revered by Nationals fans as one of the cornerstone players who helped transform the franchise from cellar-dweller to contender. His gritty leadership was integral as the team blossomed into a perennial winner.
In the end, more than just his raw numbers, it‘s that hard-nosed resilient approach to the game that formed the essence of Werth‘s legacy.
What Does the Future Hold for Jayson Werth?
As he heads toward his mid-40s, what might be next for Jayson Werth in the years to come?
It wouldn‘t be surprising to see Werth continue accepting occasional TV/radio analyst gigs. His insight and engaging personality lend themselves well to broadcasting.
I could also envision Werth pursuing MLB coaching or front office opportunities, perhaps starting out with an organization he‘s familiar with like the Nationals. His veteran wisdom would translate very well to guiding players.
But for the immediate future, betting is Werth will keep soaking up family time and enjoying the fruits of his long successful career.
While Werth may hold various baseball roles in the future, he seems content right now being a full-time dad and husband removed from the MLB spotlight.
Wrapping Up: Enjoying Low-Key Family Life Post-Career
And there you have it my friend – a comprehensive look at what Jayson Werth has been up to since retiring from his exceptional MLB playing career back in 2017!
From becoming a doting family man, to sharing his knowledge through media and mentorship, it‘s clear Werth is enjoying a productive and fulfilling start to his post-baseball life.
I hope you found this deep dive into Werth‘s background, stats, accomplishments, and current activities interesting and informative. Let me know if you have any other former players you‘re curious about and I can put together another guide like this!
Until next time, thanks for reading and go Nats!
