Pettite Declines Option
The New York Yankees have done more losing over the past few weeks than a sheltered, South Dakota couple making their first trip to Las Vegas. Since being eliminated from the playoffs in mid-October, the Pinstripers have [lost the best manager] in baseball, [the best hitter](http://www.nypress.com/blogx/display_blog.cfm?bid=22801141) in baseball and now they might lose their best pitcher.
Andy Pettite, the Yankees only truly reliable starter this season, [declined a $16 million option] to rejoin the team yesterday, proving that hes still uncertain about whether or not he wants to pitch next year. Although this move technically makes Pettite a free agent, the southpaw has stated that he will either pitch for New York next season or he will retire. I have spoken with Brian Cashman, who has reiterated what Hank Steinbrenner said about the Yankees wanting to give Andy all the time he needs to decide about next season, Pettittes agent, Randy Hendricks, said Monday. Accordingly, we are declining to exercise the option for 2008 and Andy will declare free agency in order to free up a roster spot for the Yankees.
Thats a classy move by Pettite. Although the Yankees [lost their class] this offseason, it clearly hasnt affected their players. But if they keep this losing streak up, they might lose more than just class and a few superstars: Their streak of 12 consecutive postseason appearances might vanish as well.