Former Cleveland Indians Second Baseman Jason Kipnis is returning home after signing a minor league deal this week with the Chicago Cubs. Kipnis, a native of North Brook, Illinois outside Chicago, was drafted by the Tribe in 2009 and made the American League All-Star teams in 2013 and 2015. Kipnis appeared in 1,121 games as the Indians second baseman. Wednesday on Instagram, Kipnis authored a heartfelt 'Thank You' to the Cleveland Indians organization and the fans. Kip's post is below:
Cleveland, I’ll keep it short... Thank you. For taking a chance on me as an organization and as a fan base. You guys joined me on this ride to get this great org back to where it belonged, at the top competing for a WS every year! I’m sorry I couldn’t finish the job for you.
You helped shape me into the person I am today and I’m forever grateful. From the polite and respectful greetings you showed my family, friends and I everywhere we went. Every restaurant, every bar, every heinen’s, everywhere! You made me feel 10 feet tall!
Many of you went from fans, to familiar faces, to even friends. Keep that Rally Together spirit going for this team. You’re holding them to a high standard and that’s the way it should be.
I was fortunate enough to play with some of the best teammates, coaching, medical and equipment staff in the game and wouldn’t have had the run i did without them. Many of which are lifelong friends now.
I’ll always cherish my time in Cleveland and always tried to show you how much I loved wearing that jersey by the way I played for you! Forever grateful, forever part of the Tribe!
Thank you Cleveland.
Kip, Dirtbag,#22
(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
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