In a heartfelt admission, Puerto Rican professional baseball catcher Martín Benjamín Maldonado has spoken about his profound regret over leaving the Houston Astros, a team with which he forged an indelible connection both on and off the field. Maldonado, a veteran catcher who is currently a free agent, has had an illustrious career in Major League Baseball, playing for teams such as the Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Angels, Kansas City Royals, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago White Sox. However, his time with the Houston Astros left a lasting mark, particularly during the team’s 2022 World Series championship run.
“Leaving the Houston Astros was one of my biggest regrets,” Maldonado stated. “I’ve played for many teams throughout my career, but there’s something about Houston that is different—special. The fans, the stadium, the players I worked with—it’s something I miss every day.”
Maldonado, known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership behind the plate, became an instrumental part of the Astros’ success during his time with the team. Though media outlets, including *The New York Times* and *Sports Illustrated*, described him as one of MLB’s poorest hitters, Maldonado’s defensive contributions more than compensated for his offensive shortcomings. His Gold Glove and Fielding Bible Award in 2017 stand as testament to his elite catching skills, and he was praised for expertly managing the Astros’ pitching staff during their postseason campaigns.
One of Maldonado’s most remarkable achievements was his role in catching three combined no-hitters—making him the first catcher in MLB history to accomplish such a feat. His defensive prowess and ability to guide pitchers in high-pressure situations cemented his reputation as one of the most reliable backstops in the league, especially during the Astros’ World Series-winning season.
Reflecting on his departure, Maldonado added, “I miss the fanbase more than words can describe. Houston fans bring an energy to the ballpark that you can’t find anywhere else. Every time I stepped onto the field at Minute Maid Park, I felt their support. It’s not just about the wins or the big moments—it’s about the community we built together. The stadium, the noise, the atmosphere, and the love from the fans—it’s something I’ll always cherish.”
Maldonado’s journey in baseball has been filled with highs and lows, but the connection he felt with the Astros stands out as a highlight of his career. He recalls his time in Houston as some of the best years of his professional life, stating that the bonds he formed with teammates, coaches, and fans are irreplaceable.
As he looks ahead to the next chapter in his career, Maldonado admits that he will always carry a part of the Astros with him. “Houston will always have a special place in my heart. I’m grateful for everything the organization gave me and for the memories we created together. While I hope to continue my career, there will always be a part of me that wishes I had never left. The Astros are a part of me, and that’s something no one can take away.”
Maldonado’s reflection on his time with the Astros serves as a reminder of the emotional and lasting connections that players can build with a team, transcending the results on the field. As a free agent, the future for Maldonado remains uncertain, but his impact on the Astros, both defensively and as a leader, will not be forgotten anytime soon.
