Giants announce the retirement of Mike Matheny today. Matheny was in the final year of his 3 year 10.5 million dollar deal. Most expected that this was going to happen with the signing of Bengie Molina but it’s still unfortunate news. Matheny was battling continued post-concussion problems after his early departure in 2006 in which he experienced a “serious foul-tip” off of his face mask. Matheny, who built a reputation on his defense, surprisingly had his best year at the plate in his first year with the Giants. Setting career highs in home runs (13), doubles (34), and RBIs (59).

Matheny ended his 13 year career with 4 gold gloves, earning one in his first year with the Giants. He was the first Giants catcher to win a gold glove since Kirt Manwaring in 1993. Even more impressive is that Matheny won 3 gold gloves consecutively from 2003-2005. Always one of the most respected ballplayers in the game I wish Mike the best in whatever endeavors he takes on next. In the article linked above it mentions a possibility that Matheny could return to the Giants as a coach, which I think would be great since Alfonzo and Molina aren’t known for their defense and they always say that catchers make the best coaches.