On May 29, 1989, veteran third baseman Mike Schmidt surprised the baseball world by abruptly retiring during a road trip in San Diego. At 39, with a .203 batting average, six homers, and signs of decline, Schmidt decided it was time to hang up his spikes.

His emotional announcement, marked by tears and a box of tissues, showed the high standards he held himself to:

Despite having already officially retired, fans continued to shower him with admiration. In a twist of fate, Schmidt was still voted a starter in the 1989 All-Star Game, making him the only former player ever selected to start while already in retirement. He chose not to play but attended the game in Anaheim, accepting the honor and taking part in pre-game ceremonies.

Over his 18 seasons, all with the Phillies, he hit 548 home runs, earned 10 Gold Gloves, 3 MVPs, 6 Silver Slugger awards, and was a 12-time All-Star. He was named the NL Player of the Decade for the 1980s, and in his first year of eligibility in 1995, was inducted into the Hall of Fame with 96.5% vote.

Jerry Groate, Hal King, Doc Powers, Buddy Rosa, and Bob Swift all hold the record for the most innings caught in a game without an error at 24.