Ryan Franklin has retired from baseball and accepted a scouting position with the Cardinals. The 38-year-old right-hander was released in late June following an implosion as closer early in the year and then weeks of limited used out of the bullpen. He finishes his 12-year career with a 4.14 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 84 saves while playing for the Mariners, Phillies, Reds and Cardinals.

Ryan Franklin acknowledged Sunday that he is leaning toward retiring from professional baseball. Franklin didn't bother seeking out another organization after the Cardinals released him in late June and doesn't sound any more interested in returning to the playing field here in October. "I know if it started tomorrow I'd be leaning toward staying around the house," said the 38-year-old right-hander. "It was pretty neat to be able to take my kids on their first day of school. My wife thought so, too."

Cardinals released RHP Ryan Franklin. Franklin began the season firmly entrenched as St. Louis' closer, but he blew a save on Opening Day and it's been all downhill since. The 38-year-old right-hander allowed nine home runs and 44 total hits in just 27 2/3 innings this season. He could decide to simply retire.

Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch writes that the Cardinals "may be closer to a decision" regarding struggling reliever Ryan Franklin. Franklin gave up two runs on three hits (including a home run) over one-third of an inning on Tuesday night and now has an ugly 8.46 ERA over 27 2/3 innings this season. Cardinals manager Tony La Russa acknowledged considering "creative" alternatives to address the situation, so it's possible he could be placed on the disabled list or designated for assignment. According to Strauss, a decision is expected before the club leaves Thursday for Tampa Bay.

Ryan Franklin got hit hard again on Tuesday, giving up two runs on three hits in only one-third of an inning. Taking the mound to start the eighth inning with a 6-0 lead, Franklin got the first out on a hard shot to left field before surrendering a home run, a single, and an RBI double. And that was all Cardinals manager Tony La Russa needed to see. Opponents are now hitting 44-for-120 (.367) against Franklin this season, while the struggling reliever carries an 8.46 ERA and 1.84 WHIP. He has now surrendered 11 earned runs on 18 hits in his last six appearances.

Ryan Franklin thinks he fixed a mechanical flaw in an extended bullpen session Friday. After watching some video, Franklin discovered that his leg kick was quicker in the past and he thinks slowing it down might have taken away some of his deception. "We're looking at a lot of reasons for what's going on," said Franklin. "There has to be some reason why I get hit like that. There's a reason. My stuff is as good as it's always been. It would be different if that was the case. I know there has got to be a reason." The owner of an 8.17 ERA and 1.86 WHIP this season, Franklin better right the ship in a hurry before he's designated for assignment.