Reds’ 8-year starter retires in surprise middle-of-season decision

It's not too often that players who were just in MLB in this very season call it quits midway through.

But that's what Tucker Barnhart did.

According to MLB reporter Robert Murray, Barnhart has retired from Major League Baseball.

Barnhart is most known for his time with the Cincinnati Reds, for whom he played eight seasons.

In that time, the catcher won a pair of Gold Gloves.

Barnhart was never an incredible hitter, but he was solid enough for a great defensive catcher. In his eight Reds years, he batted .248 and hit 51 home runs.

After Cincinnati, Barnhart spent time with the Tigers, Cubs, Diamondbacks and Rangers.

Barnhart, 34, suited up in eight MLB games for the Rangers this season, going 3-for-13 at the plate while mostly appearing as a defensive replacement.

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Murray reports that those in baseball believe that the 5-foot-8 former catcher would make a good manager, although it's not clear whether Barnhart would pursue such a route.

As Barnhart puts away his catcher's gear for the final time, it's just clear that he was a solid big league ballplayer for a long time.

It takes a lot of work to be a good defensive catcher who is almost always available to get into a crouch and do the job.

Barnhart put in that work, and his defense was rewarded.

The Reds were the main beneficiaries of Barnhart's ability and work ethic, and Cincinnati should remember him fondly.

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