SF Giants franchise legend could retire after not pitching since 2023

SF Giants legend Madison Bumgarner has not pitcher in major league baseball since 2023. While he could try to mount a comeback, it seems likely that he is going to retire. It is unclear what his future could hold.

Bumgarner is and always will be a legend in San Francisco for his legendary postseason performances while on the Giants. He was a huge part of all three World Series championships in the 2010's. Most notably, he was absolutely dominant in 2014. He basically took over that postseason for the Giants and put the team on his back in Game 7 against the Kansas City Royals, delivering the team's third championship in 5 years.

SF Giants legend Madison Bumgarner could retire

He remained a solid pitcher for the Giants after 2014, turning in solid seasons while also dealing with injury at times. Ultimately, the Giants decided to not keep Bumgarner after 2019 when he became a free agent. It turned out to be the right choice as Bumgarner struggled with the Arizona Diamondbacks and never lived up to his five-year $85 million contract. He was let go by Arizona in 2023 after posting a 10.26 ERA in 4 starts.

No teams have taken a chance on Bumgarner since then. This was a little surprising given his pedigree, but he did not look great and saw his velocity decline a lot as a member of the Diamondbacks.

It seems like retirement is the most likely option for Bumgarner. With Buster Posey as the president of baseball operations, this would be the perfect time for Bumgarner to officially retire as a Giant.

There are also some who seem to think Bumgarner could return as a coach or return in some capacoty with the Giants organization, although there is nothing concrete to suggest that will happen soon.

Whether Bumgarner retires or tries to come back and pitch in some capacity, he will always be a legend in San Francisco. It would be amazing if he involved himself more in the organization someday but whatever he chooses he is a legend.

If he never throws a pitch again in MLB, his career did not end the way he wanted. But no one will remember his Arizona years, instead he will be remembered as one of the best World Series pitchers of all time.