4-Time All-Star Catcher Announces Retirement


With a stellar resume that includes four All-Star selections, and leading his teams to the postseason in 10 of his 14 years in the big leagues, veteran catcher Russell Martin has officially announced his retirement from baseball.

The 39-year-old Martin last suited up in the majors in 2019. Over the course of his outstanding career, he played leading roles for the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and his home-country Toronto Blue Jays, playing in nearly 1,700 regular-season games, and another 58 postseason games. He also has a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger to his name, and a lot of fans in a lot of different places. 

Martin made the announcement on Instagram, saying it's family-time now for him, with his 3rd child on the way. 

"After 14 years in the @mlb, I am officially retiring from professional baseball. Timeless memories that I will cherish forever. I had the chance to play for greatorganizations such as the @dodgers @yankees @pittsburghpirates and @bluejays. I want to thank everyone that has played a part in my baseball journey. 

"Time for me to spend more time with my beautiful family @elisabethchic and my two lovely daughters Eva and Emmy. Baby #3 is a few weeks away."

Congratulations to Russell Martin on one of the greatest catching careers of this generation, and one of the best Canadian major league careers of all time.

Photo Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports