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packy_naughton on Instagram: "For the past 26 years, baseball has meant everything to me.From growing up playing at the complex, to having my brother Jake behind…" For the past 26 years, baseball has meant everything to me.From growing up playing at the complex, to having my brother Jake behind the plate for me in high school, to pitching at Virginia Tech, I thought I had already accomplished more than I ever dreamed. Then I was given the opportunity to play professional baseball and eventually make my Major League debut with the Los Angeles Angels. It was a moment I’ll never forget.Later, getting the opportunity to wear the Birds on the Bat with the St. Louis Cardinals changed everything. Learning what it truly takes to compete at the highest level, navigating the ups and downs of the big leagues, and eventually running onto the field as part of an Opening Day roster are memories I’ll carry with me forever.People always tell you to play until they take the jersey off your back. I truly believed that’s how my career would end. Unfortunately, it came sooner than I had hoped.After multiple elbow surgeries, countless hours of rehab, and giving everything I had to get back on the mound, my body has made the decision for me. My elbow just can’t do it anymore. I gave this game everything I had, and then some. While I’m proud of that, it doesn’t make writing these words any easier.None of this would have been possible without the people who stood beside me every step of the way.To my wife, Taylor, thank you for loving me through the highest highs and the lowest lows. Baseball isn’t always glamorous, and you’ve carried me through some of the hardest moments of my career with more strength than I’ll ever be able to repay.To my brothers, Jake and Liam, thank you for being my biggest supporters from day one. Jake, getting to have you catch me growing up are memories I’ll always cherish.To my parents, thank you for every early morning, every late-night drive, every sacrifice you made, and for believing in me long before anyone else did. I truly believe I was blessed with the best parents anyone could ask for.Continued in comments…. https://www.instagram.com/p/DbBeUEekTwn