White Sox catcher Martin Maldonado announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Saturday. The 39-year-old shared his decision:
I was just four years old when I fell in love with you. From the moment I first put on that catcher’s gear, I knew this game would be part of me forever. Every inning, every pitch, every moment behind the plate has been a blessing. For 34 years, I’ve had the honor of wearing that gear — and for the last 15, doing it at the highest level. Today, it’s time to hang them up and officially call it a career.
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To my wife, Janelise, and to my amazing kids — Anaiah, Aiden, and Gianna — what a journey we’ve lived together. Thank you for your love, your patience, and your unwavering support through all the highs and lows. Thank you for the sacrifices, year after year, that allowed me to chase a dream that started when I was just a kid — and became our dream as a family. We’ve shared so many memories — traveling from city to city, packing bags, celebrating wins, learning from losses, laughing, crying, and growing together. You’ve been the heart of my home and the strength that carried me through it all. I love you with all my heart.
To my mom, Jeanette, my dad, Martin, my brother, Carlitos, and my sister, Adelys — what a ride we’ve had. You were there from day one, teaching me the game, taking me to practices, cheering from the stands, and never missing a single inning. None of this would have been possible without your sacrifices, your belief, and your love. You gave me the foundation to live this dream, and I share this moment with all of you.
And to all my teammates, coaches, trainers, fans, and friends — every single one of you has left a mark on my life and career. You pushed me, challenged me, and inspired me to become the best version of myself. I’m forever grateful for the brotherhood, the memories, and the respect we built along the way.
To the fans — thank you for your passion, your energy, and for making every moment special. You’ve made this game even more beautiful.
As I take off the gear for the last time, I do it with a full heart — grateful, proud, and forever in love with the game that gave me everything.
Thank you, baseball. And thank you all for being part of this incredible journey
Maldonado, who is calling it a career after 15 seasons, played for the White Sox in 2024. Though never known for his bat, the veteran turned in his worst offensive season by hitting .119/.174/.230 with four homers, 17 RBI, and a -1.5 fWAR in 147 plate appearances. The organization eventually released him on July 21.
Despite his struggles in Chicago, Maldonado turned in a successful career elsewhere thanks to his exceptional game-calling and defense. He finishes having played for seven teams, which also includes the Brewers, Angels, Astros, Royals, Cubs, and, most recently, the Padres. The catcher retires with a final slash line of .203/.277/.343 and 119 home runs over 4,028 plate appearances and 1,230 major league games.
Our entire team at Sox On 35th wishes Maldonado all the best in his next chapter.
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