Miguel Rojas to retire after 2026 season: 'Last Dance' with Dodgers and his quest for a three-peat
Miguel Rojas, the heartbeat of the Los Angeles Dodgers' clubhouse, has confirmed that the 2026 season will be his last in uniform. To be precise, it's not a case of being forced out – this is his own choice, a chance to go out on top. Shortly after last season's World Series win, he declared: “When next season (2026) is over, I'm hanging up my cleats.” In that moment, every fan inside Dodger Stadium – and those of us watching on screens – couldn't help but wish: “Let's win a third straight title for this man.”
Extension for the 'heart and soul': worth $5.5 million
In December 2025, the Dodgers re-signed Rojas to a one-year, $5.5 million deal. This wasn't just a token gesture towards a veteran. In the 2025 season, he played 114 games, batting .262 with seven home runs. Defensively, he was Gold Glove calibre. More than that, his true value shines in the postseason. In both 2024 and 2025, Rojas was the Dodgers' 'joker in the pack'. Whether at shortstop, second base or third, he filled injury gaps more seamlessly than anyone else, and shifted the mood of a flagging dugout. This man's winning aura simply can't be measured by stats alone.
The unforgettable 2025 World Series Game 7: a moment for the ages
Why are Dodgers fans so drawn to Rojas? It was proved in the top of the ninth inning of Game 7 of the 2025 World Series. Trailing the Toronto Blue Jays by one run, just three outs away from seeing their back-to-back dreams die. That's when Rojas was sent up as a pinch hitter. On a 1-1 count, he drove a low outside pitch the other way. The ball kept carrying, soaring into the right-field stands. A dramatic, game-tying solo home run. The moment the name 'Miguel Rojas' was etched forever not just into baseball fans' memories, but into the minds of the general public as well.
Unshakeable popularity: the 'Appreciation T-shirt' effect
This impact has, of course, spilled over into merchandise. In shops around LA and across various online sites, sales of gear bearing Rojas' number 72 are surging.
- APPRECIATION T-SHIRT ROYAL BLUE BREAKINGT...: Many fans say, “I can't watch a game without this royal blue tee.”
- Miguel Rojas jersey: Embroidered home white and limited custom models are especially popular. Both official and unofficial (custom) versions are flying off the shelves.
- Kids' and adults' uniforms: The sight of parents and children waving “Miguel Rojas” towels has become a familiar feature at Dodger Stadium.
A commitment to quality: gear and play – both 'the real deal'
Among fans, demand is particularly high for the Miguel Rojas jersey MIGUEL ROJAS uniform, especially the 'white home' and 'number 72 embroidered' versions. More and more unofficial custom-order sellers are popping up, but local diehards say: “If you love Rojas' playing style – gritty, yet rock-solid defence – you should go for proper embroidery, not cheap prints.” That's how much his career is defined by an attention to detail. This is a man who made his Major League debut with the Dodgers in 2014, spent eight years with the Miami Marlins, then came back. The weight on his shoulders is something else.
The 2026 season opener: all in for a final flourish
Fast forward to 27 March 2026 (26th local time). The Dodgers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks to start their season with a win. And in the ceremony celebrating their world championship, who should carry out the 2024 and 2025 World Series trophies but Freddie Freeman and Miguel Rojas. While Shohei Ohtani received the ceremonial first pitch from Magic Johnson, Rojas hoisted the trophy high above his head. The look on his face was full of determination – it's not over yet.
But Rojas' 2026 won't be plain sailing. He had initially shown great enthusiasm for playing for his native Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. However, insurance issues – given his age (37) and his contract – got in the way, and he was forced to pull out. Even so, he says: “My goal hasn't changed. It's a three-peat. The pride I would have worn for Venezuela in the WBC, I'll express in a Dodgers uniform.”
And beyond
Miguel Rojas is no mere mercenary. The organisation has already lined up a role for him in player development after he retires. What we'll see from Rojas this season isn't just about contributing to wins. It's a live coaching session, passing on the 'winning know-how' to the next generation of Dodgers. That's why, as the season goes on, young players never stray far from his side. In a Dodgers squad full of superstars, that's why he remains the indispensable man.
Rojas said: “I'm not doing this for the money. I came back to win a third straight title with this team.” The Dodgers emblem emblazoned on his chest. Number 72's last dance, carrying that pride. You won't want to miss it.