Astros Catcher Martín Maldonado Announces Retirement After 15 MLB Seasons

HOUSTON — Veteran catcher Martín Maldonado announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Saturday, concluding a 15-season career that saw him play a crucial role with the Houston Astros and other teams.

Maldonado, 39, made the announcement via an Instagram post, thanking his family, teammates, coaches, and fans. He shared, “Baseball, I was just four years old when I fell in love with you… Today, it’s time to hang them up and officially call it a career.”

Throughout his career, Maldonado impressed fans and coaches with his defensive skills, resulting in an American League Gold Glove Award in 2017 while with the Los Angeles Angels. He is perhaps best recognized for his pivotal role in six postseason appearances with the Astros, contributing significantly to their World Series championship in 2022.

He completed his career with a batting average of .203, 119 home runs, and 384 RBIs over 4,208 plate appearances across 1,230 games. Known for his exceptional game-calling and leadership, Maldonado caught three no-hitters during his tenure, including a notable performance in July 2023.

After stints with the Milwaukee Brewers, Angels, Kansas City Royals, Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, Chicago White Sox, and most recently, the San Diego Padres, he finished his last season with the Padres.

Maldonado indicated plans to participate with Team Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic and hinted at a potential coaching career, inspired by other former players like Stephen Vogt.

“Thank you, baseball. And thank you all for being part of this incredible journey,” Maldonado concluded in his post.