Counsell retiring, joining front office

Updated: Tuesday, 17 Jan 2012, 11:45 AM CST
Published : Tuesday, 17 Jan 2012, 11:45 AM CST

MILWAUKEE (AP) - Milwaukee Brewers infielder Craig Counsell has decided to retire and join the club's front office.

The Brewers said Tuesday that Counsell will become special assistant to general manager Doug Melvin. Counsell is a Milwaukee native and follows his father into the Brewers' front office. John Counsell worked there from 1979-1987.

The 41-year-old Counsell completed his 15th major league season last year. His last five seasons have been spent in Milwaukee. Playing second base, shortstop and third base, Counsell compiled a .255 batting average with 218 doubles, 40 triples, 42 home runs, 647 runs and 390 RBIs.

During his baseball career, Counsell played for the Colorado Rockies, Florida Marlins, Los Angeles Dodgers, the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Brewers. Counsell says he's looking forward to beginning a new challenge in baseball.

Copyright Associated Press, Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.