New York Yankees 2011

[BigAsh]

NEW YORK -- A person familiar with the arrangements says Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte plans to announce his retirement Friday at a news conference at Yankee Stadium.

The person spoke to the Associated Press on Thursday on condition of anonymity because the news conference had not yet been announced.

Pettitte has been telling the team since the end of the season that it was likely he wouldn't play in 2011. He became a free agent and has not attempted to negotiate a contract.

His intention to retire first was reported by YES Network's Michael Kay.

The 38-year-old left-hander is 240-138 with a 3.88 ERA n 16 major-league seasons. He excelled in the postseason, setting a major league record for wins by going 19-10 with a 3.83 ERA.

Pettitte's departure leaving a huge hole in the Yankees' rotation, with no proven starters behind CC Sabathia, Phil Hughes and A.J. Burnett.



AJ better learn how to pitch again....