Ian Desmond opts out of 2020 season

Following the announcement that Mike Leake, Ryan Zimmerman and Joe Ross would all opt out of playing the 2020 season, Rockies outfielder Ian Desmond announced yesterday that he would be opting out as well. 

The veteran batted .255/.310/.479 last year for Colorado while adding 20 home runs and 65 RBIs.

Citing the dangers presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Desmond made a long and heartfelt Instagram post detailing how he came to this decision. 

I won't go into too much detail on his post, because I think you should take the time to read it in its entirety and reflect on his words. But the important part is that Desmond is using this time to do what he can to give back to his community and be there for his family. 

He says he'll be spending his time away from MLB to help get Sarasota youth baseball back on track and make sure kids in the community have the same opportunities that he did. He also said he feels he needs to be with his family, which includes his wife and four kids. 

I have massive respect for Ian Desmond after making this announcement, and in my opinion, you have to respect the way he made his decision. Ultimately it's his, and any other player's, decision whether or not they play this year, and if they feel it's best for them, we should all just leave it at that.