| LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.
— J.T. Snow is taking off one hat and putting on several others. The Gold Glove first baseman officially announced his retirement Thursday
and joined the Giants front office in a multidimensional role — a plan MediaNews
first reported two weeks ago. Unsure what he wants to pursue, the Giants offered him a
tasting menu of broadcasting, coaching and advising general manager Brian Sabean.
"They're giving me so much freedom," said
Snow, who will be a radio analyst for about 20 games when Jon Miller is called away for
his duties with ESPN.
Snow, 39, didn't catch on with another club after the
Boston Red Sox granted his request for a release in June. He didn't receive much interest
this winter and wasn't interested in a minor league contract with an invitation to spring
training.
"I really thought I'd get another chance with a
contending team, given my postseason history and being a left-handed hitter,' Snow said.
"It's a humble experience when you're talking to your agent and nobody's calling. The
light bulb goes off that this could be it.
"I can look back and honestly say I have no
regrets. It's easier than I thought it'd be to walk away because I gave it all I had. I
have nothing left to give as a player. I'm all tapped out."
Snow said he has thought of a managing career and
will begin coaching first basemen on a semi-roving basis. In addition to the young players
in spring training, one of his projects will be helping good friend Rich Aurilia, who is
slated to get the bulk of at-bats as a first baseman.
Snow also has thought of a front-office career and
will advise Sabean on some personnel decisions.
He has a natural attraction to the broadcast booth,
where his late father, Jack, ended up following an NFL career.
"We talked about this day for a long time,
especially last year when he was sick," Snow said. "He thought I'd be good at
(broadcasting). He thought I'd have a lot to offer. If I can do half the job he did, I'd
be happy."
Snow played 15 major league seasons, including a
nine-year run with the Giants that started in 1997. Snow ranks as one of the most popular
players in club history because of his professionalism and his youthful good looks.
Executive vice president Larry Baer said he
understood if some fans might be disappointed to learn Snow won't start his broadcast
career on telecasts.
"His appeal to the female fan base is
undeniable," Baer said with a laugh. "But for starters, radio is a little more
straightforward."
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