Tony Watson, a 36-year-old reliever who most recently pitched for the Giants, has announced his retirement from baseball.
The veteran lefty posted a career 2.90 ERA and has the all-time record for holds — a stat that’s been recorded since 1990. Watson spent more than three of his 11 seasons with the Giants, most recently as a steady hand in the back of the 107-win club’s bullpen.
With the Giants in 2021, Watson posted a 2.96 ERA in 24.1 innings, but was left off the postseason roster because of a left shoulder strain. His final appearance came on Sept. 28 against Arizona.
The Athletic was the first to report Watson’s decision.
“Thank you to all my teammates, peers, coaches, and support staff for all the cherished memories along the way, for providing support to keep me on the field, and experiences that will last a lifetime,” Watson said in a statement to The Athletic. “Thank you to the Pirates, Dodgers, Giants, and Angels organizations and their fans for the support and opportunity to live out a childhood dream. Thank you to my wife and kids for being with me every step of the way and to my family and friends for always being there and supporting me through it all.”
Given Watson’s effectiveness, it was surprising that he got through the winter unsigned. But his shoulder injury apparently helped make the decision for him and the 30 clubs.
Watson also spent time with the Dodgers, Angels and Pirates, whom he was an All-Star in 2014 for. He made 689 appearances total and recorded 246 holds — the current MLB record.
