After nine seasons in Major League Baseball, veteran catcher Andrew Knapp announced his retirement on Monday. The 33-year-old made the emotional announcement via an Instagram post, reflecting on a career that spanned four teams but was highlighted by his five-year run with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Knapp, a second-round draft pick by the Phillies in 2013 out of the University of California, Berkeley, made his MLB debut with Philadelphia in 2017. The switch-hitter served primarily as a backup during his tenure, but his defensive abilities, game-calling skills, and clubhouse presence made him a valuable asset.
In his Instagram post, Knapp expressed gratitude for the opportunities baseball provided him. “I completely dedicated my life to the game, and the game blessed me with so much,” he wrote. “Baseball has given me relationships that I will have for the rest of my life. It has taught me how to fail and how to persevere. It has taught me how to be confident but humble.”
A Journey Through the Majors
Knapp’s MLB journey began when he debuted for the Phillies on April 6, 2017, at the age of 25. He would go on to appear in 226 games for Philadelphia over the next five seasons, serving as a reliable backup to starting catchers like Cameron Rupp and J.T. Realmuto.
While his offensive numbers were modest, with a career .209 batting average and 13 home runs, Knapp earned praise for his work behind the plate. He formed strong relationships with the Phillies’ pitching staff and was lauded for his pitch-framing abilities and game management skills.
“Knappy is one of the best teammates I’ve ever had,” former Phillies pitcher Jake Arrieta said in 2020. “He’s always prepared, always working hard, and always ready when his number is called. You can’t ask for more from a backup catcher.”
– Jake Arrieta, former Phillies pitcher
Late-Career Transitions
After the 2021 season, Knapp became a free agent and signed with the Cincinnati Reds. However, he appeared in just three games for the Reds in 2022 before being released in May.
Knapp then spent time in the Seattle Mariners and Pittsburgh Pirates organizations, but did not make it back to the majors. In 2024, he signed a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants, earning a brief call-up in July. He appeared in three games for the Giants, going 1-for-5 at the plate.
A New Chapter Begins
Now, as Knapp hangs up his cleats, he looks forward to the next phase of his life. “I’m excited for what the future holds,” he wrote in his retirement announcement. “I’m grateful for the memories, the friendships, and the lessons that baseball has given me. And I’m ready to take on new challenges and adventures.”
Knapp’s retirement is a reminder of the dedication and perseverance required to reach the highest level of professional baseball. While he may not have been a household name, his impact on the teams he played for and the relationships he built will endure long after his playing days are over.
As the baseball world bids farewell to Andrew Knapp, we celebrate a career marked by hard work, resilience, and a love for the game. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a testament to the enduring spirit of America’s pastime.
