SB Nation’s Chris Cotillo reports that reliever Eric Gagne is ending his attempt to make it back to the major leagues. Gagne will now focus on coaching.
Gagne, 41, signed with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League, but struggled. He gave up five runs (two earned) on three hits and a walk with two strikeouts in 1 1/3 innings. Gagne briefly spent time in the independent Canadian-American Association in 2015-16 as well, but totaled only 9 1/3 innings.
During his prime, between 2002-04, Gagne was the best reliever in baseball, earning the Cy Young Award in 2003. He also set the major league record with 84 consecutive save chances converted.
