Big Hurt - Return To Oakland (2008)

Return To Oakland (2008)

On April 20, 2008, the Blue Jays released Thomas, who had been batting only .167. This occurred one day after being benched by the team for his lack of production, and criticizing manager John Gibbons for benching him. Four days later, the Oakland Athletics and Thomas agreed to terms for his return. In his final game with the Athletics on August 29, he went 2 for 4. After struggling at the plate with Oakland and a two-month stint on the disabled list, his 2008 season ended with a .263 batting average when he was again placed on the 60-day disabled list on August 30. On October 31, 2008 he became a free agent. Thomas officially retired on February 11, 2010, and will be eligible for consideration for the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014.