MLB News: New York Yankees Pitcher Andy Pettitte Retires

News

Pitcher Andy Pettitte has decided to retire after 16 major league seasons. He cited familial responsibilities as the reason for his decision.

Pettitte became a free-agent following the 2010 season after going 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA for the New York Yankees, and from the onset it was unclear whether he would be returning for the 2011 season—though it seemed as though he was leaning toward retirement from the start.

Over the course of his career, Pettitte posted a 240-138 record with a 3.88 ERA. He was a three-time All-Star and holds the record for most post-season wins, with 19. From 1995 to 2003 and from 2007 to 2010, he played for the New York Yankees, while from 2004 to 2006 he played for the Houston Astros.

Because there was much speculation about his retirement, his saga drew parallels to that of retired football great Brett Favre, who had hinted toward or announced his retirement more than once, only to come back the following season.

Pettitte is not the first notable ballplayer to retire following the 2010 season. Outfielder Rocco Baldelli and pitchers Gil Meche and Russ Springer called it quits as well.