Upton wasn't believed to be pursuing any playing opportunities after revealing in January that he planned to embark on a media career, and his inclusion on the broadcast Tuesday supports that idea. The 35-year-old will thus put an end to a 12-year run in the majors that included stops with the Rays, Braves, Padres and Blue Jays. He'll retire with 164 home runs, 300 steals and a .243 career average to his name.

Upton previously went by B.J., which stands for "Bossman Junior," when he began his professional career in 2002 upon being selected by Tampa Bay with the second overall pick in the first-year player draft. Since the 2015 season, however, he had gone by Melvin Upton Jr., in honor of his father's given name. He's since decided to once again pay homage to his father's nickname by reverting to B.J. as he heads into his age-34 campaign. Upton, who was out of baseball in 2018 after being released by the Indians last March, remains a free agent and will presumably have to settle for a minor-league deal if he desires to keep his playing career going.

It appears Upton has opted to look elsewhere for a major-league opportunity after being informed he wouldn't make the Indians' Opening Day roster. The 33-year-old struggled to get things going in Cactus League action, hitting just .189/.250/.297 in 40 plate appearances. If Upton does find his way back to the majors, it will likely be in a part-time capacity.

Upton inked a minor-league contract with the Indians back in December and will battle for a backup outfield spot with Rajai Davis on the big-league squad. Three of Cleveland's outfielders bat left-handed, so Upton could see at-bats against lefty pitching if he makes the team. The 33-year-old slashed a disappointing .238/.291/.402 in 2016, and will look to rebound this season.