Major League Baseball all-time saves leader Trevor Hoffman has decided to retire, ending his stellar 18-year career, according to MLB.com.
In an exclusive interview with sports writer Barry M. Bloom, Hoffman said he will return to the San Diego Padres in a "still undefined role."
"It's time to retire. It's time to move on," Hoffman told Bloom.
The Padres refused to re-sign the iconic reliever after 16 years with the Friars. In 2008, Hoffman had 30 saves in 34 in chances, with a 3.77 ERA. And that was not his finest season.
Hoffman signed with Milwaukee over the Los Angeles Dodgers even though he said the two offers were close.
In February 2009, Hoffman took out a full page ad in the San Diego Union-Tribune thanking his fans.
""We’ve experienced extreme highs and lows; it is what makes the risk worth the rewards," the ad said. "Thank you for the 16 seasons to represent San Diego both on and off the field. My family and I will cherish the memories. Thanks, Hoffy."
