Javy Lopez Retires

Long time Braves catcher Javy Lopez has decided to retire after learning he would not make the Opening Day roster. Lopez wasn't all that impressive hitting wise, but he was still in the running with the other three catchers: "We just think [Lopez] needs more time," Cox said. "He caught and received the ball really well. He blocked really good. Throwing, he needs more time back there." In fifteen major league seasons, Lopez hit .287 with 260 homeruns. His best year came in 2003 with 43 homeruns, but he fell after that year after joining the Orioles and than was ultimately released by the Red Sox. He is remembered for successfully handling some of the best pitchers in baseball during the nineties and his success in the playoffs.