Torres calls it quits

In a surprise move Tuesday, former Pirates closer Salomon Torres retired from the Milwaukee Brewers.

The 37-year-old Torres emerged as the Brewers closer last season after Eric Gagne lost his job and recorded 28 saves, including a 27-for-32 stretch after replacing Gane May 24. He also had a 7-5 record with a 3.49 ERA.

Torres still lives near Pittsburgh with his wife Belkis and his three children.

"While I still have great passion and energy for the game of baseball, I feel that the time has come to redirect that passion and energy to my family and God."

Torres was always a good player and good guy to talk too while with the Pirates and was one of the most durable relief pitchers in baseball after resurrecting his career in Pittsburgh in 2002. He left the organization with a bad taste in his mouth after a squabble over a promise to help him with a Dominicann baseball academy which was never followed through on by the organization.

Here's hoping the best for Torres and his family. A good player and an even better person.