Reliever Jesse Chavez, whose 18-year MLB career included multiple stints with the Atlanta Braves, announced his retirement Thursday while appearing on the “Foul Territory” podcast.
“As of now, I don’t think we’re going to keep going,” Chavez, 41, said. “I think this is it. Time to turn the page and focus on the next chapter of life.”
Chavez spent parts of six seasons with the Braves — his most with any team.
He became known, especially late in his career, for delivering mediocre seasons elsewhere before thriving again whenever he rejoined the Braves.
That formula worked well until this season when a return to the Braves wasn’t the rejuvenating force it had always been. Chavez had a 9.00 ERA over four appearances.
BREAKING: Jesse Chavez announces his retirement from Major League Baseball.
Congratulations on a great career, Jesse! pic.twitter.com/oobZUtUs2W
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) July 24, 2025
His hellos and goodbyes with the Braves were frequent. Nine times, he was either traded to, signed by or re-signed with the Braves. That includes three occasions this season alone, as he was repeatedly released and re-signed as a minor-league free agent.
Teammates called him “Coach” as a nod to his age and also to the advice he gave to young players and veterans alike.
Chavez was among the most beloved Braves players in recent years, both in the clubhouse and among fans.
He pitched in many big games and high-leverage situations. Early in his career, he did so by relying on a four-seam fastball in the mid-90s. Later in his career, Chavez got by on guile. His success stemmed from his pinpoint control with his five-pitch mix, including an 89-90 mph sinker.
“This has been a great ride. Way more than I expected for a 42nd-round draft pick,” Chavez said. “I was given a gift. I understood that. It was, ‘How can I make it last? How can I keep it going for this long?’”
(Photo: Luke Hales / Getty Images)