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Jason Giambi retires after 20 seasons in majors

FILE- In this May 25, 2014, file photo, Cleveland Indians designated hitter Jason Giambi prepares for an at-bat during a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, in Baltimore. Giambi, the American League MVP in 2000 with Oakland, told the New York Daily News on Monday, Feb. 16. 2015 that he's retiring after 20 seasons in the majors. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)
FILE- In this May 25, 2014, file photo, Cleveland Indians designated hitter Jason Giambi prepares for an at-bat during a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, in Baltimore. Giambi, the American League MVP in 2000 with Oakland, told the New York Daily News on Monday, Feb. 16. 2015 that he's retiring after 20 seasons in the majors. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)

By Associated Press 2 min read

CLEVELAND (AP) – Jason Giambi is retiring after 20 seasons in the majors.

The 2000 AL MVP announced his decision Monday in a statement that was first sent to the New York Daily News. He ends his career as one of 20 players in history with at least 400 home runs, 1,400 RBIs, 1,200 runs and 1,300 walks. The 44-year-old played for Oakland, the New York Yankees, Colorado and Cleveland.

Following last season, Giambi said he would discuss with his family whether to keep playing. The longtime slugger appeared in just 26 games for the Indians in 2014.

A five-time All-Star and fearsome power hitter, Giambi batted .277 in his career with 440 home runs and 1,441 RBIs. He had a .399 on-base percentage and slugged .516.

The first baseman was also tarnished by his involvement in the BALCO performance-enhancing drugs investigation. He never publicly admitted using PEDs, but has apologized for past actions.