Orlando Hernandez To Retire

Orlando Hernandez has attempted comebacks in consecutive seasons and expressed interest in pitching in the Major Leagues this year, but he's ready to officially end his career. The right-hander will announce his retirement, according to Andy Martino of the New York Daily News (on Twitter).

El Duque last pitched in the Major Leagues for the 2007 Mets, but he made a name for himself across town as a playoff standout for the Yankees. Armed with a deceptive delivery, he suited up for the Yankees from 1998-2004, appearing in 16 postseason games with the club and helping New York win three consecutive World Championships.

Now 45, Hernandez retires with a playoff ERA of 2.55 with 9.1 K/9 and 4.7 BB/9 in 106 innings. His regular season numbers are not quite as strong: a 4.13 ERA with 7.4 K/9 and 3.3 BB/9 in 1314 2/3 innings. In nine MLB seasons, Hernandez earned over $34.5MM.

The Rangers signed Hernandez in 2009 and the Nationals signed him in 2010, but neither club called him up despite solid numbers in the minor leagues. In 15 2/3 innings for Nationals affiliates, he posted a 1.72 ERA with 12.1 K/9 and 2.9 BB/9, though he was 44 at the time.