Rockies OF Ian Desmond Opts Out Of 2021 Season

Colorado Rockies outfielder Ian Desmond is opting out of the 2021 season.

In an Instagram post on Sunday morning, Desmond said, "Over the last few months, I've had tough conversations, I've asked a lot of questions and done a lot of thinking. For now, I've decided to opt out of the 2021 season. My desire to be with my family is greater than my desire to go back and play baseball under these circumstances. I'm going to continue to train and watch how things unfold."

Desmond also opted out of the COVID-shortened 2020 season, choosing to spend time with his family and doing community work in the Sarasota, Florida area.

Desmond was scheduled to make $8 million this season. The Rockies have a $2 million buyout option after this season.

He signed with the Rockies as a free agent before the 2017 season and last played for the team during the 2019 season. In 140 games that year, he hit .255 with 20 home runs and 65 RBIs.

Rockies manager Bud Black spoke with reporters over Zoom from Spring Training at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Arizona on Sunday. That press conference is below.

Here are screenshots of Desmond's Instagram post.

Rockies manager Bud Black on Sunday, February 21.