Sometimes, in baseball, it’s not just about balls, strikes, and home runs—it’s about drama. And nothing spices up a trade or free-agent exit quite like a former player calling out their old team with the heat of a thousand fastballs.
Whether it was slamming the front office, questioning the manager, or just plain throwing shade, these MLB stars made sure the world knew they weren’t happy with how things ended. From subtle digs to full-on media rants, these grudges left behind more tension than a Game 7 in extra innings.
15. Marcus Stroman
When Stroman left the Mets, he didn’t exactly write a thank-you note. Instead, he responded to the organization on social media, making it clear that he didn’t feel appreciated.
14. Josh Donaldson
Donaldson’s departure from Toronto wasn’t exactly a love story. He’s taken shots at the Blue Jays’ handling of his injuries and made it known he felt disrespected.
13. Craig Kimbrel
Kimbrel didn’t mince words after bouncing around a few bullpens. He’s openly questioned how teams have used him and made it clear he’s still got plenty left in the tank.
12. Manny Machado
Machado’s exit from the Orioles was about as smooth as a check swing. He didn’t hold back in expressing how much happier he was to be playing for a contender.
11. Yasiel Puig
Puig’s departure from the Dodgers came with fireworks. He’s been vocal about feeling misunderstood and underutilized during his time in L.A.
10. Trevor Bauer
Bauer has never been shy with his opinions, and his post-Cleveland and Cincinnati comments were proof. He took public shots at former teammates, coaches, and even media members.
9. Brian Wilson
The beard was gone, but the bitterness remained. After leaving the Giants, Wilson reportedly held a serious grudge and even refused to attend team events.
8. Robinson Canó
Canó raised some eyebrows after leaving the Yankees, subtly throwing shade about how Seattle treated him versus the Bronx. He made it clear the grass might not have been greener, but it sure paid better.
7. Zack Greinke
Greinke has quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) critiqued the front offices of his former clubs. Whether it was Arizona, Los Angeles, or Houston, he’s not afraid to speak his mind about what didn’t work.
6. Carlos Correa
When Correa left Houston, he took a few subtle jabs along the way. He’s been open about feeling doubted and used that chip on his shoulder as motivation.
5. Johnny Cueto
Cueto’s time in Kansas City ended with a ring, but not without hard feelings. He made it known that the Royals weren’t always the most supportive behind the scenes.
4. Jonathan Papelbon
Papelbon had smoked for just about everyone after leaving Boston. Whether it was players, fans, or management, he didn’t hold back with his criticisms.
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3. Bryce Harper
Harper’s move to the Phillies came with more than just a massive contract—it came with quotes. He wasn’t shy about implying he felt disrespected by the Nationals during negotiations.
Read More: 17 MLB Legends Who Couldn’t Help Stirring the Pot on the Way Out
2. Alex Rodriguez
A-Rod’s time in Seattle and Texas may feel like ancient history, but the quotes live on. He’s had no problem airing his grievances about how he was treated, both publicly and behind the scenes.
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1. Albert Belle
No one held a grudge like Albert Belle. After leaving Cleveland, he took shots at the organization, the media, and pretty much anyone who looked at him sideways.
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