Four-time World Series champion, and former member of the Giants “core four”, Javier Lopez announced his retirement to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports on Wednesday.
Lopez, 39, was an unsigned free agent before deciding to step away from the game after 14 seasons. Lopez was the Giants’ lefty-specialist out of the bullpen from 2010-2016, and was a key member of three World Series teams in 2010, 2012 and 2014. Lopez also won a World Series title as a member of the Boston Red Sox in 2007.
In his seven seasons in San Francisco, Lopez posted a 2.47 ERA. Lopez was especially deadly against left-handed hitters who hit just .202/.283/.289 against Lopez throughout his career.
“More than anything, it’s just time,” Lopez told Rosenthal. “It’s a young man’s game. Although I think I can compete, it’s getting harder and harder to get ready for spring.
“I’m looking forward to some other things in my life. We’ll see what they are. I don’t know yet, but we’ll come up with something.”
The Giants acquired Lopez in a mid-season trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 2010 season. Lopez finishes his career with 839 appearances, 41st on the all time list. The Giants elected not to bring back Lopez for another season in 2017, after the veteran posted his worst ERA (4.05) since 2009.
“I’ve been representing players for over 30 years, and this is one of the finest human beings I’ve ever represented,” Lopez’s agent, Barry Meister told Rosenthal. “He’s someone I look up to, not just as a player, but as a man. I love this guy.”
With Sergio Romo signing with the Dodgers, Santiago Casilla signing with the A’s and Jeremy Affeldt’s retirement last year, Lopez is the last of the Giants’ “core four” relievers who were a part of all three title winning teams, to officially end his time with the Giants.
Lopez spoke with KNBR’s Marty Lurie on his podcast in October of last season. Listen to the full interview below.