March 22, 2008 Three-time All-Star Javy Lopez retired Saturday after being reassigned to the Atlanta Braves' minor league camp, according to the Boston Globe. Lopez, who sat out all of last season, decided against trying to extend his 15-year career in the minors. He batted only .188 this spring in his attempt to become Brian McCann's backup.
March 22, 2008 Javy Lopez's two run home run in late February will be his last spring memory that meant something. Lopez, trying to make his beloved Braves as the backup catcher was destroyed on Saturday after he learned he wouldn't be with the team on opening day, this according to the team website.
A few hours after learning the Braves might be able to find a spot for him in their minor league system, Lopez opted to retire.
February 29, 2008 Javy Lopez had a two-run homer, a sac fly and a walk Friday in exhibition action. Lopez, who took last year off, is trying to win the Braves' backup catcher job. He's off to a good start.
February 5, 2008 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Javy Lopez is in the best shape of his life. The 37-year-old catcher signed a minor league contract with the Braves in December and will compete to back up Brian McCann. Lopez is hoping to not only pull off that feat but to play well enough to entice another team to trade for him to be an everyday option.
December 18, 2007 Javy Lopez inked a minor-league deal with the Braves Monday. He'll receive an invite to spring training and will compete for the backup job behind Brian McCann, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Lopez spent the first 12 of his 15-year career with the Braves. He didn't play last year after getting cut by the Rockies in spring training.
