Former catcher Martín Maldonado has officially announced his retirement after 15 seasons in Major League Baseball, ending an impressive and emotional journey. Maldonado shared the news on his personal Instagram page, where he expressed his deep gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches and fans who have accompanied him along the way.
“15 years, 7 teams, countless memories and unforgettable moments,” Maldonado wrote. “I am grateful to everyone who believed in me, supported me and followed me every step of the way. MLB is more than just a place to play – it is my home, where I learned, grew and made lifelong friendships.”
Martín Maldonado began his MLB career with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he quickly established himself as a great defensive player. He later played for the Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox and finally the San Diego Padres.
During his career, Maldonado won the Gold Glove in 2017 with the Angels – an award that recognized his excellent catching and defense. However, his most memorable moment was probably the 2022 World Series victory with the Houston Astros, where Maldonado played a significant role in the journey to conquer the championship.
Former teammates and fans praised Maldonado not only for his technical skills but also for his relentless fighting spirit, leadership and great teamwork. “Maldonado was one of the most reliable catchers I ever played with. He not only protected the field but also inspired the whole team,” shared a former teammate.
Martín Maldonado was not only an excellent athlete, but also a model of perseverance and relentless effort. During his 15-year career, he experienced many challenges, from injuries, pressure to constantly moving between teams. But every time he stepped on the field, Maldonado gave it his all, creating unforgettable moments for the fans.
In his farewell message, Maldonado couldn’t hide his emotions: “I will miss every game, every cheer from the crowd, and every moment on the field with my teammates. MLB has given me more than I could have ever imagined – and I am grateful for that.”
Maldonado will be remembered as one of the toughest catchers, a trusted teammate, and an inspiration to a generation of young players. He is living proof that in baseball, perseverance, passion, and love for the game are more important than any statistics.
Fans around the world have sent their congratulations, thanks, and well wishes for Maldonado’s new journey. Many fans expressed their sadness at seeing an MLB icon leave the field, but also pride in the legacy he left behind.
At the end of the 2025 season and a glorious 15-year career, Martín Maldonado leaves MLB not only with impressive achievements – Gold Glove, World Series – but also with a heart full of love for baseball and a relentless fighting spirit. The moments, the games, the smiles and even the tears – all will be forever etched in the hearts of fans.
“Thank you MLB, thank you teammates, thank you family and fans. This is the best chapter of my life,” Maldonado wrote, closing a journey that anyone who loves baseball will remember forever.
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