After 15 seasons of ups and downs and glory in Major League Baseball, former catcher Martín Maldonado has officially announced his retirement. Maldonado shared the news in an emotional Instagram video, where he thanked his family, teammates, coaches, and fans who have accompanied him throughout his career.
“Houston is where I truly belong,” Maldonado said, his voice choking up. “Playing for the Astros has been not only an honor, but also the greatest pride of my career. I will forever remember every moment with this team, every game, every cheer from the fans.”
Martín Maldonado began his MLB career with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2006, then played for the Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox and finally the San Diego Padres. Although he played for many teams, his time with the Houston Astros was the most memorable. With the Astros, Maldonado played an important role in helping the team win the 2022 World Series, a glorious moment that he himself called “the pinnacle of his career”.
In addition, he also won the Gold Glove in 2017 while playing for the Angels, demonstrating his excellent defensive ability. Throughout his career, Maldonado has stood out as an excellent catcher, with a modest batting average (.203), but his ability to catch the ball, control the game and lead the locker room are strengths that always make his teammates trust him.
Throughout his years with the Astros, Maldonado left his mark not only with statistics but also with unforgettable emotional moments. He was a constant motivator for his teammates, reminding them of the fighting spirit and unity in every game.
“On nights at Minute Maid Park, when I saw the proud eyes of the fans, I knew that all my efforts were worth it,” Maldonado shared. “The Astros were my second family. I learned, grew, and was loved here.”
Martín Maldonado will be remembered as a resilient catcher, a trusted teammate, and an inspiration to a generation of younger players. He is living proof that in baseball, perseverance, passion, and teamwork are more important than any statistics.
Fans and former teammates sent their congratulations and thanks to Maldonado for his contributions throughout his career. His farewell video quickly went viral on social media, leaving many fans moved by Maldonado’s dedication and sincere feelings for the Astros.
After ending his playing career, Maldonado said he will spend more time with his family and consider other opportunities in baseball, especially coaching and developing young talent. “Baseball has given me so much. I hope to give back to the community what I have received, to inspire young players, to those who love this sport,” he said.
At the end of the 2025 season and a 15-year career, Martín Maldonado leaves MLB with a legacy not only of titles like the 2017 Gold Glove or the 2022 World Series, but also of his love for baseball, dedication and touching moments with the Astros. “I will always remember Houston, always love the Astros and always appreciate everyone who has been with me,” Maldonado shared, closing a memorable chapter in MLB history and in the hearts of fans.
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