ATLANTA — After a 15-year career that includes a 2017 World Series win with the Houston Astros, Atlanta Braves' catcher Brian McCann is retiring with the franchise he started with in 2002.
McCann, a Duluth High School graduate, told reporters he played his last game against the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 5 of the NLDS on Wednesday.
"This is everything that I wanted to do,” he said. “I wanted to come back and get a shot at the postseason, and this is it for me. I’m going to go home and be a dad and play with those kids."
McCann said that he knew about a month and half ago that this day would come, so manager Brian Snitker was aware of his decision.
"He knew. I’ve known Snit for a long, long time. He was my Double-A manager. To get a chance to do this with him, this is something I’ll always remember."
Ronald Acuna shared his thoughts on McCann's career and decision to retire.
"I grew up watching the Atlanta Braves, we all did, and I was fortunate enough to watch his career,” Acuna said through an interpreter. “What else is there to say about him? Veteran, superstar, the tremendous seasons he had. Just a perfect career. He has a tremendous impact for your organization."
Dansby Swanson also shared his thoughts on McCann's retirement and showed his appreciation for the veteran leadership he brought to the club.
"He’s been one of the best teammates I’ve ever had from the baseball experience to the clubhouse," Swanson said. “Just being around him every day, he has the unique ability to pull the best out in everybody. So, I’m extremely grateful, and I know all of us are that he chose to come back home and be a part of this."
McCann finishes his career hitting .262 with 282 career home runs.
Julio Teheran said McCann gave him a lot of confidence when he came to the team.
He said he had a great career. Listen to his remarks below.
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