South Carolina Gamecocks Baseball Great Announces Retirement After Nine MLB Seasons Including Two League-Leading Years in Total Hits

A chapter of South Carolina baseball greatness officially closed this week as former Gamecocks star and MLB standout Jacob Montgomery announced his retirement after an accomplished nine-year professional career. Known for his remarkable consistency, relentless work ethic, and pure hitting ability, Montgomery leaves the game as one of the few players in modern baseball to lead the league in total hits in multiple seasons.

The Columbia, South Carolina native, who first rose to prominence as a standout for the South Carolina Gamecocks baseball program, made his mark both in college and at the highest level of professional baseball. His journey from a determined college freshman to one of the most respected contact hitters in Major League Baseball is one of perseverance, elite preparation, and hometown pride.

For Gamecocks fans, Montgomery’s retirement serves as both a moment of reflection and celebration—a reminder of the program’s ability to produce world-class talent, and a tribute to one of its finest ambassadors.

From Gamecock Glory to MLB Stardom

Montgomery’s roots with the Gamecocks run deep. Arriving in Columbia as part of the highly touted 2010 recruiting class, he quickly established himself as a reliable infielder and offensive catalyst. By his sophomore season, Montgomery was a fixture at the top of South Carolina’s lineup, renowned for his ability to make consistent contact, work counts, and spark rallies.

It was during the 2012 season, in particular, that Montgomery cemented his legacy with the Gamecocks. Batting .352 with an SEC-best 98 hits and an on-base percentage north of .430, Montgomery helped lead South Carolina to the College World Series. His clutch hitting and defensive prowess at second base became hallmarks of a team that thrived on grit and timely performances.

Though the Gamecocks narrowly missed out on a national title during his time in Columbia, Montgomery’s impact was undeniable. He finished his collegiate career ranked among the program’s all-time leaders in hits, doubles, and runs scored, earning All-SEC honors twice and becoming a fan favorite for his steady presence and fearless approach.

His decision to forgo his senior season and enter the MLB Draft in 2013 was met with mixed emotions by Gamecock Nation. While fans knew his talent warranted professional advancement, they also recognized the void his departure would create. Ultimately, Montgomery’s draft day moment became a proud milestone for the South Carolina baseball community, as he was selected 35th overall by the San Diego Padres—a testament to both his ability and the Gamecocks’ reputation for developing MLB-ready talent.

Climbing the Professional Ranks

Montgomery’s transition to the professional game was seamless. His first two minor league seasons were marked by the same qualities that defined his college career—high contact rates, defensive versatility, and relentless competitiveness. By 2015, he made his MLB debut with the Padres, collecting two hits in his first game and signaling his arrival on the sport’s biggest stage.

Over the next nine seasons, Montgomery evolved into one of the most respected and consistent hitters in baseball. His ability to spray the ball to all fields, coupled with impeccable plate discipline, allowed him to thrive in an era increasingly dominated by power and strikeouts.

The 2018 and 2020 seasons stood out as the pinnacle of Montgomery’s career. In both campaigns, he led the league in total hits—a rare and prestigious accomplishment that placed him alongside some of the game’s most prolific contact hitters. His 2018 season included a career-high 208 hits, a .327 batting average, and an All-Star selection, while his 2020 performance, shortened by the pandemic but no less impressive, saw him post a league-leading 74 hits in just 60 games.

Throughout his career, Montgomery garnered a reputation as a professional’s professional. Coaches, teammates, and opponents alike lauded his tireless preparation, baseball IQ, and respect for the game. Despite not being the flashiest player on the field, his steady production and leadership made him invaluable in every clubhouse he joined.

Over his nine seasons, Montgomery compiled a .303 career batting average, 1,486 hits, 245 doubles, and 468 RBIs, while maintaining one of the lowest strikeout rates among qualified hitters. Though he never captured an MVP award, his consistency and reliability made him a cornerstone player wherever he went, including stints with the Padres, Chicago Cubs, and Boston Red Sox.

Honoring His South Carolina Roots

Despite the fame and demands of a Major League career, Montgomery never lost touch with his South Carolina roots. During offseasons, he frequently returned to Columbia, often working with Gamecocks players during winter training sessions and participating in youth baseball camps across the state.

In interviews, Montgomery often credited his development to the culture instilled by the South Carolina coaching staff. He spoke glowingly of his time at Founders Park, recalling the packed stands, fierce SEC rivalries, and the pride that came with wearing the Garnet and Black.

“I owe so much of my success to my time at South Carolina,” Montgomery reflected in his retirement statement. “The lessons I learned there—about preparation, accountability, and playing for something bigger than yourself—stayed with me every day of my career.”

His connection to the Gamecocks remained evident even during his MLB tenure. Montgomery was often seen sporting South Carolina gear during batting practice or charity events, and he never shied away from hyping up the Gamecocks on social media, especially during postseason runs.

In 2022, Montgomery was inducted into the University of South Carolina Athletics Hall of Fame, an honor he called “one of the proudest moments of my life.” His speech that evening emphasized not just his personal achievements, but the brotherhood and community that define Gamecocks baseball.

A Career Worth Celebrating

Montgomery’s retirement announcement was met with an outpouring of support from across the baseball world. Former teammates, coaches, and fans flooded social media with tributes to a player known as much for his character as his on-field excellence.

While his playing days may be over, Montgomery’s legacy is firmly cemented. Few athletes can claim to have led the MLB in hits twice, fewer still can say they did so while carrying the pride of their college program every step of the way.

His journey—from a promising high school prospect in South Carolina to a Gamecocks star, to one of the most consistent hitters in Major League Baseball—serves as an inspiration for the next generation of players. It’s a reminder that success is built not just on talent, but on hard work, humility, and an unwavering love for the game.

As Montgomery turns the page to the next chapter of his life—whether it be coaching, broadcasting, or simply enjoying well-earned time with his family—he does so as a proud representative of South Carolina baseball.

For Gamecock Nation, his retirement isn’t an end, but a celebration of a remarkable journey. One that began on the diamond in Columbia, reached the heights of professional baseball, and now returns home—full circle—with the legacy of a true South Carolina great.