Is Yasmani Grandal retiring from Major League Baseball? Not now, but chances are he might be considering. This retirement speculation arose from the fact that Grandal refused an offer from the Atlanta Braves just a month ago. The reason? Apparently the Cuban-American baseball catcher is looking for opportunities elsewhere. But what if that doesn’t happen anytime soon?
According to a recent report by Francys Romero, the baseball catcher might be turning towards retirement. The Pittsburgh Pirates had signed Yasmani Grandal for a 1 year contract last year. Grandal just finished enjoying a successful season with the Pirates. The 36-year-old slashed .228/.304/.400 in 72 games, resulting in 95 wRC+ and .704 OPS. So then why is he considering retiring?
The Cuban native has been in the MLB for nearly 13 years and has played for the White Sox, Padres, Brewers, Dodgers and the Pirates. Before the 2020 season, the 36-year-old catcher signed a huge free agent contract with the Chicago White Sox after making the All-Star Game with the Dodgers in 2015 and the Brewers in 2019. In his last two seasons with the Sox, he had a negative WAR.
After hitting .228 in 72 games, he inked a contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates for 2024. So then why would Yasmani Grandal throw away the only offer he had gotten so far? The main reason is still unknown. Maybe he did not want to be the Braves backup catcher as they already have a starting catcher, Sean Murphy. Ironically though, the Braves revealed last week that Murphy would miss four to six weeks due to a shattered rib cage.
Drake Baldwin is therefore the most likely starter on Opening Day. One would assume that if the Braves were interested in Grandal last month, their interest would only grow now that Murphy will be out for a long time. In fact, the Braves were “considering” Grandal and McCann, according to a story published a few days ago by Jon Heyman of The New York Post.
What does Yasmani Grandal get if he signs with the Braves?
For Yasmani Grandal, the prospect of signing with the Atlanta Braves might have just become far more attractive. With Travis d’Arnaud sidelined due to injury, the Braves have a temporary void at catcher, giving Grandal a golden opportunity to showcase his skills once more. Although d’Arnaud is expected to return soon, even a short-term chance to earn regular playing time could be a game-changer for Grandal.
Oct 7, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) scores a run past Chicago White Sox catcher Yasmani Grandal (24) during the third inning during game one of the 2021 ALDS at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
The chance to prove his worth in a prominent lineup, even in a shared role with rookie William Contreras, would offer a platform to regain confidence and prove that he still belongs in the big leagues. Grandal’s situation could also spark renewed interest from other teams. The Braves might be the only franchise to have reached out to him this offseason, but if he performs well in a major league setting, his market could open up quickly. As a proven veteran with playoff experience, Grandal has the potential to bring valuable leadership and stability to a roster in need of depth.
At 36 years old, Grandal is approaching a crossroads in his career. While he’s motivated to keep playing, his future hinges on finding the right opportunity. A deal with the Braves could reignite his career, allowing him to prove that he still has what it takes. But if the right offer doesn’t come through, the idea of retirement could start to feel more realistic. Grandal’s desire to continue playing is clear, but as with many players nearing the end of their careers, his next move may very well be the last of his major league journey.
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