How 2018 Red Sox Champion Views Undetermined Baseball Future

BOSTON -- Jackie Bradley Jr. put together several keynotes on his MLB resume that featured a capable run with the Boston Red Sox.

He earned his 2016 All-Star appearance, Gold Glove award and World Series ring during his initial eight-year tenure with the Red Sox before returning for a second stint in 2022. Bradley remained active in the sport on a smaller scale in 2024, playing for the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. That experience provided a "gathered appreciation" for the grind of his MLB goals. The New York Mets then purchased his contract for the remainder of the season.

After a new experience around the game, what's next on the field for the 2018 American League Championship Series MVP?

"I don't know," Bradley told reporters Sunday at Fenway Park. "Kind of just relaxing and enjoying family. ... Physically, I'm always gonna be there to be able to stay healthy and keep playing. Obviously, mentally you've got to be in it as well. This is a tough sport that beats on you in a lot of different ways."

Bradley shared that his family welcomed another child over the summer in another rewarding chapter of his life. From that perspective, the former Red Sox outfielder will weigh future baseball opportunities as they come.

"Mentally, I don't want to play baseball forever," Bradley said. "I know a lot of people want to play as long as they can. I'm happy. Whatever happens happens."

Bradley turns 35 next April with a baseball future that comes down to his willingness to grow on the talent he built with the Red Sox.