CORE ANDY

Just as the infamous "Core Four" was reduced to just three members last season and then two members at the beginning of this season, it became one for the first time most recently with the loss of Mo (see my previous blog).  Well, for tomorrow's Mothers' Day (by the way, happy Mothers' Day to all you moms) the "Core Four" goes back to two members once again.  That's because we will all have the chance to see Andy Pettitte attempt to come out of his short-lived retirement.

I can remember when he first began in the major leagues for the Yankees back in 1995.  It was very exciting for me because I had been anticipating his promotion for quite a while.  Around that period, the only truly successful starting pitcher that originated from the Yanks' farm system was Ron Guidry.

In time, Andy became one of the greatest starting pitchers ever for the NY Yankees and one of the most successful starters of all time for MLB.  In fact, last decade, Andy earned the most collective wins of any pitcher during those ten years.  He also has the most wins (19) in playoff history.  With his eyes barely showing from the bottom brim of his cap, he has intimidated many opposing hitters during his starts.

His one hiccup was associating himself with Roger Clemens.  Not only did Roger promote the use of steroids, but (I believe) he influenced Andy to leave the Yankees and join him in Houston (2004-2006). Andy was certainly adult enough to make his own decisions, but (like all of us) made a wrong choice - he trusted Roger.  Of course, he also made the wrong choice to leave the Yankees!  (Alright, I'm not being totally objective on that portion of my opinion.)

Even though Andy admitted to using steroids on two occasions, both instances were during periods in which he was trying to increase his recovery from injuries.  Thus, his intentions were never to cheat by gaining pitching velocity.  He was also the only one who ever spoke the truth about personal steroid usage.  Does anyone truly believe McGwire, Clemens, Sosa, or Bonds never used them?  So, not only has Andy proven to be one of the best pitchers of all time (especially during extremely crucial games) but he's also shown that honesty is the best policy - as the saying goes.

I'm not sure if Andy will continue to be successful after not pitching for a full year, but I really hope so - for the Yankees' sake (of course) and for his own personal impressive career stats.