Mike Mussina: Oriole, Yankee, Hall of Famer?

The New York Yankees have been waiting since the conclusion of the regular season for word on whether or not Mike Mussina would be returning to their rotation in 2009. Wednesday afternoon they got their answer. Mike Mussina has decided to retire from Major League Baseball, ending his 18-year professional career. With the Yankees already expected to be major players in free agency, the timeliness of Mussina’s decision couldn’t have been better. And, like always, the Yankees have a contingency plan. They have already reportedly offered a record-breaking contract to CC Sabathia, and are also rumored to be preparing free-agent offers for A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe. No need to shed a tear for the Bombers; something tells me they’ll be fine.   For Mussina, the question surrounding him is sure to shift from “Is he retiring?” to “Is he a Hall-of-Famer?” This debate is the type we live for as sports fans. And in Mussina’s case, you’ll find ... (link)