After 20 seasons in the major leagues, Jason Giambi is hanging up his cleats, the 44-year-old announced Monday.

After playing just 26 games last season as a DH and pinch hitter for the Cleveland Indians, Giambi succinctly told his kids, "Daddy's coming home."

His statement released to the New York Daily News was a little more elaborate.

"After 20 seasons, I have decided to officially announce my retirement as a Major League Baseball player. I really want to thank my wife, Kristian, for going on this journey with me. She's always been my rock. She's always been there for me with support and love, and I really couldn't have done this without her. She's been everything to me and I don't think I can state in words how much she's meant to me. I love you and thank you," Giambi wrote, leaving the game as a revered clubhouse personality as evidenced by the Indians giving him a standing offer to return as coach.

"Ever since I was five years old, all I ever wanted to be was a Major League Baseball player. The Oakland A's, New York Yankees, Colorado Rockies, and Cleveland Indians were a big part of helping that dream come true."

Giambi caps off a brilliant career, briefly marred by his involvement in the BALCO scandal, with 440 homers, 1,441 RBIs, five All-Star selections, and the 200 MVP award.

Giambi thanked a litany of people in his statement, from coaches, to players, to managers, to the media. Also, he didn't forget those that supported America's favorite pastime.

"I want to thank the fans for being a part of the incredible journey. I especially want to thank the fans that gave me a second chance to let me show you the human being you see today."

"Lastly, to the game of baseball: I started playing you when I was a kid and I'm leaving you a man. Thank you."