It has been over two years since Russell Martin last set foot on the diamond. The former Los Angeles Dodgers catcher had last appeared in a game on September 28, 2019, although he had stated that he was interested in returning. Martin did have offers in 2020, but the pandemic scuttled those plans.
And now, it is time. Martin has announced his retirement, making the unofficial official. As he stated, he had stepped away from the game after 2019, and it was time to take the next step, especially with another child on the way.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Russell Martin officially retires
Martin ends his 14 year career with a fairly impressive statistical accounting. He had been a rare speed threat behind the plate, combining solid pop with excellent speed, reaching double digits in steals in each of his first four seasons. Overall, he produced a solid .248/.349/.397 batting line in his 6648 plate appearances, hitting 191 homers and 255 doubles while stealing 101 bases.
He was also quite adept behind the plate as well. Although Yadier Molina kept Martin from winning more Gold Glove awards, the former Dodgers catcher was well regarded for his defense and pitch framing abilities. His athleticism behind the plate led to his appearing at other positions as well, as Martin made appearances at third, second, short, and both corner outfield positions.
Understandably, Martin received a good amount of recognition for his career. He was a four time All Star, earning berths with the Dodgers, Yankees, and Blue Jays. Even with Molina’s presence, he was able to win a Gold Glove behind the plate and took home a Silver Slugger award. Martin earned MVP votes three times as well and finished ninth in the 2006 NL Rookie of the Year vote.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Russell Martin has officially decided to call it a career. We wish him the best of luck going forward.