The future of former Houston Astros catcher Martín Maldonado is now official. Plenty of news surrounded Maldonado this offseason after he announced his retirement in October. Rumors were floating about him being a candidate to get into coaching, and Astros fans have been keeping an eye out for him. Some would love to see him on the Houston coaching staff.
Martín Maldonado Begins Coaching Career, Could He Return to the Astros?
While that was not the case, coaching was still the answer for the next step of Maldonado’s baseball career. Maldonado is expected to join the Atlanta Braves as a special assistant for major-league operations, according to Chandler Rome of The Athletic. This move could mark the first step toward a future MLB managerial role.
Martín Maldonado is joining the Atlanta Braves as a special assistant for major-league operations, source tells @TheAthletic. Maldonado, 39, has long been viewed as a future manager or coach. He announced his retirement in October, but will play for Puerto Rico in the WBC.
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) December 17, 2025
The 39-year-old still has one final playing commitment, as Maldonado will represent Puerto Rico in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic. After that, it is off to Atlanta. There is a chance that Maldy will get one last opportunity to play in Houston. If Puerto Rico reaches the quarterfinals, they will play in Daikin Park.
Why Maldonado Moved Into Coaching
Being the kind of player Maldonado was throughout his playing career, the transition into coaching makes complete sense. The 15-year MLB veteran from 2011-2025 has exceptional knowledge of the game and displayed it behind the plate. Maldonado spent nearly six full seasons with the Astros from 2018-2023 and played a crucial role in extending Houston’s golden era.
His Special Career
Maldonado was not known to be a hitting catcher, with a .203 career average and .620 OPS in 1,231 total games. However, he was one of the best defensive catchers in baseball during his prime with the Astros. The 2017 Rawlings AL Gold Glove winner earned the nickname “Machete” for his ability to gun down base stealers.
Maldy was an exceptional game-caller behind the plate and built strong relationships with pitchers. Through his guidance, young Astros arms such as Framber Valdez and Cristian Javier developed into stars.
Could He Return to the Astros?
Beyond his on-field impact, Maldonado was a natural leader in the Astros clubhouse. His veteran experience and calm demeanor helped elevate Houston to another level. Maldonado was incredibly smart with his high level of game awareness, and he now brings those assets to the Braves in 2026.
If his coaching career goes well, a return to Houston remains possible given his deep ties to the organization. Astros fans would welcome the 2022 World Series champion in a coaching capacity with open arms.
Main Photo Credits: David Frerker-Imagn Images