Cardinals closer Ryan Franklin to retire after 2011

Cardinals closer Ryan Franklin told reporters he plans to retire after the 2011 season to spend more time with his family. Since joining the Cardinals, Franklin has been lights out, posting a 2.72 ERA in 232 appearances. 

"I think I owe it to my family," Franklin told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "I've missed a lot of things that have been going on. I don't want to miss a lot more.

Franklin assumed the closer role last season and was voted to the All-Star for his dominating performance. So far, he has 13 saves and a 2.40 ERA in 27 games this season.