yahoo
Veteran relief pitcher Chris Martin has decided to end his professional baseball career. The 40-year-old right-hander is retiring effective immediately, as first reported by Robert Murray of FanSided.
Martin, who had been a free agent since being released by the Texas Rangers in August, leaves the game after 11 MLB seasons. He was a key member of the Atlanta Braves' bullpen during their 2021 World Series championship run.
Over 434 regular-season appearances, Martin posted a 3.53 ERA and 16 saves. He pitched for seven different franchises: the Colorado Rockies (with whom he debuted in 2014), the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Texas Rangers.
In his final season, 2026, Martin made 16 appearances for the Rangers, compiling a 1-1 record and a 9.00 ERA over 14 innings before his release.
Key Analysis
Martin's journey through Major League Baseball is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Despite not reaching the majors until age 28, he carved out a reliable career as a middle reliever and setup man. His contributions to the Braves' 2021 title will be remembered, and his retirement marks the end of a quietly effective career.
Originally reported by yahoo.