PHOENIX, June 13 (UPI) -- Matt Williams, the last of the original Arizona Diamondbacks and a five-time All-Star, told the Arizona Republic he has retired.
The announcement came Thursday after 17 seasons in the major leagues.
The Diamondbacks designated the third baseman for assignment on June 1 to make room on the roster for Shea Hillenbrand, who was acquired from the Boston Red Sox for righthander Byung-Hyun Kim.
The 37-year-old Williams, who has 378 career home runs, was batting .246 with four homers and 16 RBI in 44 games this year.
After clearing waivers Wednesday, Williams decided to retire rather than sign with another team, citing a desire to remain with his family in Arizona.
"I'll say it again -- I'm a father first," Williams told the newspaper.
Diamondbacks spokesman Mike Swanson said Williams had not informed the team of his plans.
