News and Notes: Mike Piazza Retires

12-time All-Star Mike Piazza officially retired today, putting an end to his sixteen year career. "After discussing my options with my wife, family and agent, I felt it was time to start a new chapter in my life," he said in a statement released Tuesday by his agent, Dan Lozano. "It has been an amazing journey ... So today, I walk away with no regrets." Piazza did not find much interest on the market this past off season, cutting short his career, but he knew the end was coming: "I knew this day was coming, and over the last two years I started to make my peace with it. I gave it my all and left everything on the field." Piazza is one of the best steals in draft history, being taken in the 62nd round by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Over his career in which he played for the Dodgers, Marlins, Mets, Padres, and Athletics, Piazza hit .308 with 427 HR and 1,335 RBI. He is remember by teammates and fans as friendly, a leader, and one of the great catchers in the history of baseball.

"It's the end of a Hall of Fame career," Mets manager Willie Randolph said.

Martinez to retire?: Pedro Martinez is hoping to spend more time with his family, something he feels he has not done enough recently, and may retire at the end of this season. His injuries recently make this possible, but Martinez's dad has cancer, and he would like to be there for him and his family.

Padres to have fire sale?: The Padres have always been able to put a good team together, but their hitting really has not connected this season. It is possible they will build their team around Kevin Kouzmanoff and Jake Peavy, and trade away the rest. As for players they could trade, they have: Adrian Gonzalez, Khalil Greene, Greg Maddux, Brian Giles, and Chris Young.

Cabrera switching to DH sooner than expected?: Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera is slowing down faster than expected, and it is mostly because he refuses to condition. Many feared that he would stop after he got his big contract, and so far, they are correct.

Tavarez to Rangers?: The Rockies recently signed Glendon Rusch, suggesting that Tavarez is not heading there. The Rangers need some help at the pitchers spot and could make a trade for Tavarez without surrendering much.

Rivera to Pads or Giants?: According to Angelsbaseball.com, Angels outfielder/DH Juan Rivera is drawing interest from the Padres and Giants. He would be a huge addition to both teams, considering their offenses are among the worst in baseball.