Ethan Chapman’s dream to make it to the Big League level hasn’t happened yet. This past winter, Ethan signed to play 2017 in the Mexican League (AAA level) with the Vaqueros Union Laguna club.
Off the field, he’s a husband and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith is at the center of who he is as a person.
Today is the 15th and final entry in a year-long diary that Ethan is going to share with us on his baseball journey. A journey that has now come to an end.
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I’ve spent the last 23 years playing the game of baseball. It’s been full of ups, downs, great memories and amazing people. I’ve been blessed to be able to accomplish many of my goals that I set as a young boy with the support of my loving family and friends.
After playing for 23 Years, 7 professionally, for 5 different organizations, 7 different states, 3 countries, the time has come for me to retire.
I am very proud of my career and do not have any regrets. The people and connections I’ve made along the way are irreplaceable. I would like to thank the Kansas City Royals, Philadelphia Phillies, Bridgeport Bluefish, Sioux Falls Canaries Union Laguna Vaqueros, and Tijuana Toros for giving me an opportunity to play baseball professionally.
I would also like to thank my friends, family and my fans who have showed up to countless ballparks, watched online, sent many prayers and supported each and every one of my decisions throughout my career.
My dad who never had a new glove or bat, made sure I always had the equipment I needed to perform the best I can. His parents never went to any of his games so he made sure to show up to every practice and game all the way through my college career. He has traveled to many different states, countries and called off work on many occasions to make sure I know how much he was proud of me. After mom passed last year the strength you have shown me will echo for the rest of my life and into my children. I am forever thankful to you for showing me what it means to be a good father and a good man!
Most importantly I would like to thank my wife Kylie. Without you none of this would of been possible. You supported our family emotionally as well as financially for the majority of my career without much credit from the outside world. The sacrifices you’ve made have made a huge impact on my life and I couldn’t think of anyone else I want to share these memories with. Professional baseball was both of our dreams. I’ll never forget the day I was drafted, calling you and saying that “we did it.” My career has never been about me. It’s always been about us. Each strike out, each diving catch, every home run, you were right there feeling those very same emotions. As we move onto the next chapter in our lives I know God has amazing things in store for us. I promise I will continue to work hard, support you in your dreams and be the Godly man to lead our household.
I am excited for the next step in my professional career. Playing baseball has opened doors for me that I never thought were possible.
Thanks again for the continuous love, support and prayers! God bless you all!
Editor’s Note: Ethan has been a pleasure to work with this year on Sports Spectrum and I wish him nothing but God’s blessings on his future. With Christ, anything is possible. Best wishes to him and his wife Kylie.
