Knee problems gone, Washburn eager to keep pitching

Sporting News staff reports Detroit Tigers left-hander Jarrod Washburn told the Seattle Mariners' Web site he entered spring training with plans to retire after the 2009 season. That was because he struggled so much in 2008 (5-14, 5.69 ERA). Washburn, however, had his troublesome knee surgically repaired last week and should be fully recovered by spring training. The free-agent-to-be now plans to pitch next season. Washburn told the Web site that Seattle is among the teams at the top of his list. Washburn went 8-6 with a 2.64 ERA in 20 starts for Seattle this season before being dealt to Detroit. Hindered by the knee problems, Washburn went just 1-3 with a 7.33 ERA in eight starts for the Tigers. (link)