Miguel Rojas to retire after 2026 season: His 'Last Dance' with the Dodgers and a three-peat dream
Miguel Rojas, the heart and soul of the Los Angeles Dodgers' clubhouse, is hanging up his cleats after the 2026 season. To be precise, it's not a forced decision – it's his choice to go out on top. Shortly after last season's World Series victory, he declared: "When next season (2026) is over, I'm taking off the uniform." In that moment, every fan in Dodger Stadium – and all of us watching on screen – couldn't help but think, "Let's get this guy a three-peat."
The 'Heart' of the team re-signs: Worth every cent of that $5.5M
In December 2025, the Dodgers re-signed Rojas to a one-year, $5.5 million deal (approx. ¥820 million). This wasn't just a token gesture to a veteran. During the 2025 season, he played 114 games, batting .262 with 7 home runs. His defence was Gold Glove-calibre. But his real value shines in the postseason. In 2025, as in 2024, Rojas was the Dodgers' wildcard. Whether at shortstop, second or third base, he filled any injury gap more naturally than anyone else, and shifted the mood of a slumping bench. His winning aura is something you can't measure with stats alone.
The 2025 World Series Game 7 moment that will never be forgotten
Why are Dodgers fans so drawn to Rojas? The answer came in the top of the 9th inning of Game 7 of the 2025 World Series. Down by one against the Toronto Blue Jays, three outs away from losing their back-to-back title hopes. Pinch-hitter Rojas stepped in and, on a 1-1 count, drove a low outside pitch the other way. The ball kept carrying, deep into the right-field stands. A dramatic, game-tying solo home run. That was the moment that etched the name "Miguel Rojas" into the memory of not just baseball fans, but everyday people.
The 'APPRECIATION T-SHIRT' proves his rock-solid popularity
This impact has, of course, spilled over into merchandise. In LA shops and across various online stores, sales of gear featuring Rojas' number 72 are skyrocketing.
- APPRECIATION T-SHIRT ROYAL BLUE BREAKINGT...: Many fans say, "I can't go to a game without this royal blue tee."
- Miguel Rojas jersey: Embroidered home whites and limited custom models are especially popular. Both official and unofficial (custom) versions are constantly selling out.
- Uniforms for kids and adults: Seeing parents and kids waving "Miguel Rojas" towels together has become a familiar sight at Dodger Stadium.
Authentic gear, authentic play: attention to detail
Among fans, the Miguel Rojas jersey MIGUEL ROJAS uniform – especially the "white home" and "number 72 embroidered" versions – is in highest demand. More unofficial custom order sellers are popping up, but local diehards say, "If you love Rojas' gritty, reliable defence, you should go for a quality embroidered jersey, not some cheap print." That's how much his career is defined by a focus on detail. Debuting with the Dodgers in 2014, then spending eight years with the Miami Marlins before returning – this is a man who carries a different kind of weight on his shoulders.
2026 season underway: Everything on the line for a fairytale finish
Fast forward to March 27, 2026 (local time March 26). The Dodgers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks to open the season with a win. And at the pre-game ceremony celebrating the world championship, who carried out the 2024 and 2025 World Series trophies? Freddie Freeman and Miguel Rojas. While Shohei Ohtani received the ceremonial first pitch from Magic Johnson, Rojas hoisted the trophy high. His face was full of determination – he's not done yet.
But Rojas' 2026 won't be smooth sailing. He'd initially been keen to play for his native Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). However, at 37 years old and with contractual insurance issues in the way, he had to reluctantly pull out. Even so, he says, "My goal hasn't changed. It's a three-peat. The pride I would've worn for Venezuela in the WBC – I'll wear it in a Dodgers uniform instead."
And then, what comes next
Miguel Rojas is no mere mercenary. The club has already lined up a post-playing role for him in their Player Development department. This season, every move we see from Rojas isn't just about winning games. It's an on-the-job lesson in passing the "winners' know-how" to the next generation of Dodgers. That's why young players never stray far from his side as the season progresses. And why, in a team full of superstars, he remains the irreplaceable one.
As Rojas put it: "I'm not doing this for the money. I came back to win a three-peat with this team." The Dodgers emblem emblazoned on his chest. Number 72's last dance, carrying that pride. Don't take your eyes off it.