What does it truly mean to be a father? For Buster Posey, the beloved catcher of the San Francisco Giants, it meant stepping away from the game he loved, to embrace the joys and challenges of fatherhood, especially the arrival of his newly adopted twin daughters.
The news broke on a Friday, the announcement reverberating through the baseball world. It wasn't a trade, a retirement, or a season-ending injury. Instead, it was a deeply personal decision, one that underscored the importance of family above all else. Buster Posey, a name synonymous with the San Francisco Giants, had announced that he would be opting out of the 2020 baseball season.
The reason, as shared in a heartfelt statement, was the adoption of twin baby girls, Ada and Livvi, with his wife, Kristen. Their arrival was a joyous event, but complicated by the fact that the twins were born eight weeks prematurely. Posey's decision, driven by a father's protective instinct, was to prioritize the health and well-being of his daughters during the uncertain times of the coronavirus pandemic.
The announcement was followed by a press conference, which was scheduled early Friday morning, a detail that hinted at the significance of the impending news. It was a moment of profound reflection, a testament to the values that guided Posey's life both on and off the field. His decision resonated with fans and fellow players, as it was a glimpse into the man behind the mask, and his unwavering dedication to his family. It was a choice made with love, compassion, and a clear understanding of what truly matters.
The Posey's journey into parenthood is a testament to their big heart and strength. Besides Ada and Livvi, the family is also blessed with twin boys, Lee Dempsey Posey and Addison Lynn Posey. This is a family that exemplifies love and commitment, showing that family comes first.
The baseball world often sees players as larger-than-life figures, but Posey's actions reminded everyone of the common human experience. He had to make a choice between his career and his family. He did not hesitate for a moment. This is not just about baseball, it is about family, love and sacrifice.
The athlete who opted out of the game at the age of 34, is a parent to two sets of twins alongside his high school sweetheart of a wife, Kristen Posey. The family now has four children, that is indeed a blessing.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gerald Dempsey "Buster" Posey III |
| Date of Birth | March 27, 1987 |
| Birthplace | Leesburg, Georgia, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 220 lb (100 kg) |
| Spouse | Kristen Posey |
| Children | Lee Dempsey Posey, Addison Lynn Posey, Ada Posey, Livvi Posey |
| Position | Catcher |
| MLB Debut | May 29, 2010, for the San Francisco Giants |
| Career Highlights | 7-time All-Star, 3-time World Series Champion, 2012 NL MVP, 2010 NL Rookie of the Year, 5-time Silver Slugger Award Winner, 1-time Gold Glove Award Winner, 2012 NL Batting Champion |
| Teams | San Francisco Giants (2009-2021) |
| Retirement | Announced retirement in 2021 |
| Source | MLB.com Player Profile |
The decision wasn't made in a vacuum. It followed weeks of contemplation, as Posey grappled with the evolving situation surrounding the 2020 baseball season and the health risks associated with the pandemic. He had spent time pondering the state of baseball and the associated risks.
It's important to recall that in the previous year, on July 10, 2020, Posey shared with the world that his family had grown with the arrival of the adopted twins. This announcement, coming during a challenging time for the world, brought joy and a sense of warmth to the Giants fanbase and the wider baseball community. It was a moment to celebrate life and the expansion of a loving family.
The impact of Posey's decision was felt far beyond the confines of the baseball field. It highlighted the difficult choices faced by athletes during the pandemic, forced to weigh their professional careers against the safety of their loved ones. His decision to opt out of the season was a stark reminder of the human element in sports, the sacrifices made, and the priorities that shape lives.
Posey's absence from the field was a loss for the Giants, but his commitment to his family was unwavering. His teammates and the organization, including Farhan Zaidi and Gabe Kapler, respected and understood his choice. They were in full support of the decision he made to stay home to raise his newborns and his older twins.
His decision was far from a casual one. The press conference, held at 9:00 a.m. PDT on that Friday morning, underscored the weight of the announcement. The news was confirmed on Friday, as Posey cited health concerns for his newly adopted twin girls as the primary reason for his departure. He made the decision to prioritize their health.
Before the 2014 season, the infamous collision at home plate, pushed major league baseball to adopt rule 7.13, informally known as the "Buster Posey Rule."
Prior to his decision to opt out of the 2020 season, Posey had a remarkable career. He was a seven-time All-Star, a three-time World Series champion, the 2012 National League MVP, and the 2010 NL Rookie of the Year. He was known for his exceptional skills behind the plate, his leadership, and his ability to rise to the occasion in clutch moments. He was a cornerstone of the Giants' success during their championship runs. His return in 2012, from a serious injury, was a triumph, a testament to his resilience and determination.
The birth of his first set of twins, Lee Dempsey Posey and Addison Lynn Posey, born in 2011, added another layer to his personal story. The family had grown in number and love.
The decision to adopt Ada and Livvi was a reflection of the Poseys' generous hearts and their desire to provide a loving home for children in need. His wife, Kristen, was often seen cheering him on during his games, and the twins were a regular feature of the Poseys' life.
The Giants fans often saw Kristen and her twins during Busters games.
The twins, Ada and Livvi, although healthy, needed to spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit. Posey's decision to step away was informed by the reality of their situation, a testament to the importance of family and the need to protect the most vulnerable.
His commitment to his family was the defining factor. He was a symbol of leadership and a player that endeared himself to millions of Giants fans. They knew him as a person, a family man, someone who showed what it means to care and sacrifice. He wore a stoic face on the field, but it was always a time for a "Buster Hug".
Posey's legacy extends beyond his accomplishments on the field. He has embodied the values of family, commitment, and dedication. His legacy would be remembered for his impact, his grace, and his unwavering commitment to what matters most.
Posey's story is a reminder that sports are not just about wins and losses, statistics and championships. They are also about the human stories that unfold within them, the sacrifices made, the values upheld, and the love that binds us all.
