In a pre-game interview earlier today, Mike Lowell said this would likely be his final season in baseball.

From the Boston Herald:

Lowell, who will make his first start of the season tonight here against the Royals, was discussing his situation as a bench player with the Red Sox when he was asked if he’s already looking forward to next year, when he would be eligible to sign with another team and perhaps play every day.

“No, I don’t,” Lowell said, “Because this probably is my last year.”

Lowell, only 36, said he has been pondering retirement following this season ever since he re-signed with the Red Sox after the 2007 World Series. At that time, Lowell probably could have signed a four-year contract (the Phillies were among his most aggressive suitors and may have given him a four-year deal). Instead, he signed a three-year, $37.5 million extension with the Red Sox. This is the final year of that contract.

With four All-Star selections and two World Series championships to his credit, Lowell’s had quite a career and shouldn’t have any reservations about calling it quits.

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