Sean Gilmartin is a name that resonates in the world of baseball, particularly for those who remember his solid performance on the mound with the New York Mets, Baltimore Orioles, and Tampa Bay Rays. As a left-handed pitcher, Gilmartin’s journey in Major League Baseball (MLB) wasn’t filled with the stardom of some of his contemporaries, but his story is one of persistence, adaptability, and quiet success. Today, Gilmartin is perhaps best known for his marriage to Kayleigh McEnany, former White House Press Secretary, and their growing family.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on May 8, 1990, in Thousand Oaks, California, Sean Patrick Gilmartin was raised in a family where sports, particularly baseball, were central to his upbringing. He attended Crespi Carmelite High School in Encino, where he was already showing promise as a pitcher. Despite being drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 31st round of the 2008 MLB Draft, Gilmartin made the decision to attend college rather than go pro. He went on to play at Florida State University (FSU), a decision that would set the stage for his future success.
At FSU, Gilmartin’s talent as a pitcher began to shine brightly. He was named an All-American and became a respected figure in college baseball. His standout year came in 2011, when he posted an impressive 12–2 record with a 2.09 ERA across 120 innings. This earned him recognition as one of the top college pitchers in the country, making him a prime candidate for the MLB Draft.
The Road to MLB
Gilmartin was drafted again in 2011, but this time, it was in the first round by the Atlanta Braves, who selected him 28th overall. This marked the beginning of his professional baseball career, and he quickly worked his way through the Braves’ minor league system. Known for his control, composure, and left-handed pitch delivery, Gilmartin’s professional career was off to a promising start. He was ranked as one of the Braves’ top pitching prospects, signaling that a big league opportunity was on the horizon.
Over the course of a few seasons, Gilmartin played for several minor league teams, including the Gwinnett Braves and the Mississippi Braves. By 2014, his performance had made enough of an impression for the Minnesota Twins to acquire him in a trade. He continued to climb through the ranks of the minor leagues before finally getting the call-up to the New York Mets in 2015.
Sean Gilmartin Major League Baseball Career
Debut Season with the Mets
Gilmartin made his MLB debut on April 10, 2015, with the New York Mets, a moment that would forever define his career. In his rookie year, he appeared in 50 games, posting a solid 2.67 ERA in 57.1 innings. It was a breakout year for Gilmartin, who had worked tirelessly to earn his spot on the team. His ability to perform well out of the bullpen earned him respect among teammates and coaches alike.
Over the next few seasons, Gilmartin bounced between the Mets, the Baltimore Orioles, and the Tampa Bay Rays, serving as a reliable but unflashy left-handed reliever. His career numbers include a 4–5 win-loss record, a 4.34 ERA, and 90 strikeouts over the course of his career. While Gilmartin’s MLB career didn’t see him become a star, he proved to be a valuable asset to his teams, particularly as a versatile bullpen arm.
Challenges and Setbacks
Despite his early success, Gilmartin’s career was marked by the kind of struggles many players face: roster changes, injuries, and inconsistent performance. His time with the Mets in 2015 stands as his peak, but after that, he struggled to find a consistent role with other teams. After spending time with the Baltimore Orioles in 2018 and Tampa Bay Rays in 2020, Gilmartin faced a tough decision when his contract expired, and he elected free agency.
Retirement from MLB and Life After Baseball
By the end of 2020, Sean Gilmartin had stepped away from professional baseball, and while his MLB career didn’t end with a grand finale, his time in the big leagues still gave him experiences many only dream of. After leaving baseball, Gilmartin turned his focus to family and a life outside of sports.
His marriage to Kayleigh McEnany, a prominent political figure and former White House Press Secretary under President Donald Trump, brought Gilmartin into the spotlight in ways he never sought. The couple married in 2017, and their relationship has been one of mutual respect and private affection. They now have two children, with a third on the way, as of 2025.
What’s Sean Gilmartin Doing Now?
Since stepping away from professional baseball, Gilmartin has largely kept a low profile. He has not sought the same level of media attention that comes with being married to a public figure like McEnany. Instead, he has chosen to focus on his family life, which includes raising two children and preparing for the birth of their third. It’s unclear whether Gilmartin has taken up any formal post-baseball career or business venture, as he remains private about his professional life after sports.
Sean Gilmartin Personal Life: Family and Marriage
In addition to his baseball career, Gilmartin’s life is now primarily centered around his marriage to Kayleigh McEnany. The couple has been together since 2015 and married in November 2017. They share two children, a daughter born in 2019 and a son born in 2022, and as of 2025, they are expecting their third child.
Gilmartin and McEnany’s relationship has been one of partnership and support, with McEnany balancing her career in the media and politics with her role as a mother and wife. Gilmartin, by contrast, has kept his focus on being a father and staying out of the limelight. Their story, while not filled with public drama, is a testament to how professional athletes can transition from their playing careers to family life with grace and privacy.
Sean Gilmartin Net Worth and Earnings
Over his MLB career, Sean Gilmartin earned an estimated $2 million in salary. His contracts, including his time with the Mets, Orioles, and Rays, reflected a typical middle-tier salary for a player of his role. While he did not earn the high salaries of some major league stars, Gilmartin’s earnings were substantial enough to set him up for a comfortable life after baseball.
His net worth, as of 2024, is estimated to be around $2.5 million to $3.5 million, largely based on his career earnings, potential investments, and his lifestyle post-retirement. These figures are estimates, as the exact details of his financial holdings are not publicly available.
Legacy and Impact
Sean Gilmartin may not have had the career of a Hall of Famer, but his story is one of perseverance and dedication to his craft. As a left-handed pitcher, he contributed to multiple teams over his career, proving that even players without star power can have a significant impact on the game. His time with the Mets, where he had his best season in 2015, will be remembered by fans who appreciated his calm demeanor and steady presence on the mound.
Off the field, Gilmartin’s role as a supportive husband and father has defined his post-baseball life. While his baseball career may be behind him, Gilmartin’s story remains one of resilience, family, and finding peace after the game. His transition from a professional athlete to a family man is a path many former players take, and it serves as a reminder that life after sports can be just as fulfilling.
Conclusion
Sean Gilmartin’s career in Major League Baseball may not have ended with headlines or World Series rings, but his contribution to the sport and his personal life are noteworthy in their own right. From a promising college pitcher to a reliable bullpen arm in the majors, Gilmartin’s journey is one of persistence. Today, as he focuses on his family and life beyond baseball, Gilmartin continues to inspire those who look up to the quieter side of professional sports. Through his career and personal choices, he shows that success isn’t always about the spotlight but about dedication, family, and finding fulfillment after the game ends.
