Andy Pettitte: Most consistent Yankees rotation leader

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The Bio

Andy Pettitte‘s name is indelibly etched in the annals of Yankees history, an iconic figure whose allegiance to the pinstripes defined his illustrious 18-season Major League Baseball (MLB) career. It all began in 1995 when he burst onto the scene, leaving an enduring mark as he clinched the third position in the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award balloting. The year 1996 was an extraordinary one for him, as Andy Pettitte led the AL with a remarkable 21 wins, narrowly missing out on the AL Cy Young Award, a true testament to his extraordinary talent. A mere two years later, he was bestowed with the prestigious honor of being the Yankees’ Opening Day starter, a role reserved for the cream of the crop.

But Andy Pettitte’s significance extended far beyond his individual accolades; he was a foundational pillar of the revered “Core Four,” a group that included Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, and Jorge Posada. Together, they formed the bedrock of the Yankees’ late-1990s dynasty, a period that culminated in four championship triumphs. Andy Pettitte’s standout performance in the 2001 AL Championship Series earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award, a pivotal contribution that propelled the Yankees to a pennant victory.

After a stellar nine-year tenure with the Yankees, during which he consistently notched a minimum of 12 wins each season, Andy Pettitte embarked on a significant journey by signing with the Houston Astros in 2004. Nevertheless, his heart never truly strayed from the Yankees, and in 2007, he made an emotional return to his cherished team. During his second stint, Andy Pettitte exhibited remarkable candor by acknowledging his use of human growth hormone to aid in his recovery from a 2002 elbow injury. This admission underscored his integrity and unwavering determination to contribute to the Yankees’ success, ultimately culminating in a triumphant fifth World Series championship in 2009.

Andy Pettitte’s retirement decision at the close of the 2013 season signaled the conclusion of an era, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that extended far beyond his allegiance to a single team. Notably, he also enjoyed a brief but impactful tenure with the Houston Astros and earned three All-Star selections during his illustrious career.

While some might associate Andy Pettitte’s name with the Mitchell Report, human growth hormone, and his connection to Roger Clemens, for many, he embodies the quintessential homegrown Yankee legend. His leadership steered the team to a spectacular series of triumphs, including clinching four World Series championships in just five seasons from 1996 to 2000. Andy Pettitte’s enduring reputation in the baseball world is underscored by his status as MLB’s all-time postseason wins leader, with an impressive 19 victories to his name. With two 20-win seasons, three All-Star selections, and consistent top-six finishes in Cy Young Award voting, Andy Pettitte’s legacy in the sport is indisputable. His collection of five World Championship rings stands as an indelible testament to his unquestionable greatness on the baseball diamond.

Early life and career of Andy Pettitte

Andy Pettitte’s odyssey commenced on June 15, 1972, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he first saw the light of day as the child of Tommy and Joanne (Martello) Andy Pettitte. Initially, his father wore the hat of a police officer, but in a pivotal career shift in 1981, the family relocated to a quaint Texan town near Houston. While young Andy dabbled in football, it was the allure of baseball that truly captured his heart from an early age, drawing inspiration from legends like Nolan Ryan and Roger Clemens. Andy’s father played a pivotal role in nurturing his left-handed talents, going so far as to construct an AstroTurf mound in their yard, providing the ideal practice ground for Andy to refine his pitching skills.

In his youth, Andy Pettitte was known for his reserved demeanor, often feeling somewhat out of place in social settings. It was during his teenage years that he crossed paths with another introverted soul at church, Laura Dunn, the pastor’s daughter. Their initial interactions were marked by a mutual shyness so profound that they humorously recounted dating for a whole year before they could muster the courage to strike up a conversation. Sharing his sister’s deep faith, Andy Pettitte’s commitment to Christianity deepened over time. However, their relationship faced resistance from Laura’s parents due to their tender age, but the couple’s bond endured, eventually culminating in a blissful marriage.

Andy Pettitte’s prowess as a high school pitcher did not escape the notice of scouts, making him a coveted prospect. In 1990, following his senior year, the New York Yankees plucked him from the draft in the 22nd round. It’s worth noting that when one delves into the annals of late-round draft picks in baseball history, Andy Pettitte’s name frequently emerges at the zenith. His career Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 60.2, considering he was the 594th pick in that draft, is nothing short of extraordinary. In a curious twist of fate, no other player selected in the same round that year managed to amass any notable WAR. Interestingly, in the 24th round of that same draft, the Yankees also scooped up another luminary figure, Jorge Posada, who would go on to play a pivotal role in shaping Andy Pettitte’s professional journey.

It’s worth noting that Andy Pettitte had a significant influence on his decision, and it came from none other than his Gulf Coast League teammate and future Yankees batterymate, Jorge Posada. Like many catchers, Posada wasn’t too thrilled about handling the unpredictable nature of the knuckleball. After Andy inadvertently hit Posada’s foot one too many times with his elusive knuckleball, Posada candidly voiced his concerns, saying, “Dude, if you’re going to keep throwing that, I’m not going to catch you anymore.” It was at this moment that Andy Pettitte decided to make a pivotal change and started working on a straight change-up instead.

This change-up, along with his continually improving fastball and a diverse repertoire of effective breaking pitches, proved to be a valuable asset for Andy Pettitte as he made his way through the minor leagues. Throughout his journey, he also achieved personal milestones, including marrying Laura while playing in A ball. Finally, in 1995, he received the long-awaited call to join the major leagues, signifying a significant milestone in his promising career.

Andy Pettitte’s MLB debut

Andy Pettitte’s initial foray into the Major Leagues was marked by a blend of hurdles and promising glimpses. In his debut appearance for the big club, he faced struggles, surrendering two runs on three hits in just two-thirds of an inning while coming in as relief against the Royals on April 29, 1995. The following day, his performance showed a slight improvement as he allowed an unearned run in one inning of relief. However, these two quick stints led to a demotion to the minor leagues. Nevertheless, his unwavering determination and evident potential earned him a recall just over a week later. Subsequent appearances primarily saw Andy Pettitte coming in as relief until he was granted his first starting opportunity on May 27 against the A’s. Despite giving up only one earned run, a combination of shaky defense from the Yankees and an outstanding shutout performance by the opposing starter, Steve Ontiveros, resulted in Andy Pettitte taking the loss.

Despite these early setbacks, Andy Pettitte’s rookie season showcased his resilience and growth as a pitcher. He went on to make 25 more starts, concluding the season with a commendable record of 12 wins and 9 losses, accompanied by an earned run average (ERA) of 4.17. Notably, his 12 wins marked the highest number of wins by a Yankees rookie in 27 years, a feat not achieved since Stan Bahnsen’s impressive 17-win Rookie of the Year season in 1968. Among his standout performances, one that shone brightly was a complete game against the Angels, where Andy Pettitte yielded just one run while striking out eight. As the season progressed, Andy Pettitte’s strong finish became a hallmark, ensuring he closed the year with a winning record, going 5-1 down the stretch.

Andy Pettitte’s rookie campaign epitomized what one could hope for in a young pitcher’s debut season. His outstanding performance earned him a third-place finish in the American League Rookie of the Year voting, with left fielder Marty Cordova of the Twins claiming the award. The Yankees secured the wildcard spot in the playoffs during a strike-shortened season, although their postseason journey was halted by a loss to the Mariners in the American League Division Series. Nevertheless, Andy Pettitte’s first taste of playoff action solidified his role as a key starter for his sophomore season.

In 1996, the Yankees harbored grander aspirations than a wildcard spot, though their path to the championship was far from smooth. The team encountered challenges, including a mysterious injury to their number one starter and team leader, David Cone, which turned out to be an aneurysm requiring serious surgery. Other pitchers were also plagued by injuries, owner George Steinbrenner’s roster changes caused upheaval, and team conflicts arose. Through it all, Andy Pettitte remained a pillar of consistency. His strong performance in the first half of the season earned him a spot on the All-Star team, and he evolved into the ace of a championship-winning team in his first full season. Andy Pettitte honed his cutter and showcased his prowess in picking off runners, leading the majors with 10 pick-offs.

The Yankees clinched the World Series for the first time since 1978, with one of the highlights being Andy Pettitte’s outdueling of the formidable John Smoltz in Game Five of the 1996 Series, a standout moment in his career. His final tally for the year stood at an impressive 21 wins and 8 losses with an ERA of 3.87, a performance that earned him second place in Cy Young Award voting, with Pat Hentgen taking home the prestigious honor.

In 1997, Andy Pettitte continued to display his remarkable skills, delivering a performance that many considered even more impressive than the previous year. He concluded the season with an outstanding record of 18 wins and 7 losses, accompanied by an exceptional ERA of 2.88. His excellence was further underscored by leading the league in allowing the fewest home runs, a mere 0.3 per nine innings. Throughout the season, he logged a remarkable 240.1 innings across 35 starts. Although the Yankees made it to the playoffs, they encountered a setback, losing to the Indians.

The subsequent season proved to be another solid one for Andy Pettitte, despite a slight increase in his ERA to 4.24. However, it was an extraordinary year for the Yankees, with many considering them the best team in baseball history. The season culminated with Andy Pettitte securing the win in the final game of the 1998 World Series, pitching an impressive 7.1 scoreless innings. Derek Jeter, his teammate, hailed him, saying, “Andy is a big-game pitcher. That’s the bottom line. Every time you think his back is against the wall, he comes out and delivers a performance like this.” This period solidified his reputation as one of the premier left-handed pitchers in the game.

The Yankees continued their winning streak, securing another championship season after their dominant 1998 campaign. The offseason also brought good news for Andy Pettitte as the Yankees signed his childhood hero, Roger Clemens.

The start of the 1999 season posed challenges for Andy Pettitte as he grappled to find his form. He conceded six or more runs in five of his first-half starts, resulting in a lackluster 5-6 record and an elevated ERA of 5.53 by the end of June. July did not bring much respite. After a disappointing outing against a relatively average White Sox team, where he allowed eight hits and two walks in just three and a third innings, George Steinbrenner, the Yankees’ owner, publicly expressed his displeasure. Trade rumors swirled, and Andy Pettitte came close to being sent to the Phillies. However, the deal fell through, and Andy Pettitte rebounded in the latter part of the season. He finished with a strong 7-3 record down the stretch, including five wins in August. Andy Pettitte contributed with two wins in the playoffs, even though his performance in the World Series was not at its peak; the Yankees still managed to sweep the Braves for another championship.

The Yankees’ remarkable success persisted with the “Core Four” intact. They secured the World Series in 2000, made it to the World Series again in 2001 (though they lost this time), advanced to the American League Division Series in 2002, and returned to the World Series in 2003. Throughout this extended period of success, Andy Pettitte remained a dependable and accomplished pitcher. While he never secured a Cy Young Award, he placed fourth in the American League (AL) voting in 2000 and sixth in 2003. His ERA takes on an even more impressive aspect when adjusted to ERA+, considering park and league variables.

By the end of this remarkable stretch from 1995 to 2003, Andy Pettitte had accumulated 13 postseason wins, a testament to his postseason prowess. Notably, the Yankees won 11 consecutive postseason starts when he took the mound. Andy Pettitte ultimately concluded his career with a record 19 postseason wins and a respectable postseason ERA of 3.81. His contribution to the postseason, including an astounding 276⅔ innings pitched, stands as a record, underscoring his individual effort alongside his team’s excellence and the expanded playoff system.

Stint with Astros

After the 2003 season, the Yankees’ apparent lack of enthusiasm in re-signing Andy Pettitte left many scratching their heads. Their approach was deemed “rather baffling.” In a move that raised eyebrows, the Yankees waited until the very last day of their 15-day exclusivity period to reach out to him. According to Joe Torre, it was characteristic of owner George Steinbrenner not to highly value what he already had. While the Boston Red Sox showed a keen interest in Andy Pettitte, he had a strong desire to return home to Texas. Beyond the prospect of reuniting with his close friend Roger Clemens, who also signed with the Astros that offseason, Andy Pettitte’s homecoming didn’t go as smoothly as he had hoped. His debut with the Astros was marred by a torn forearm tendon he suffered while batting, leading to an erratic season. He spent a significant portion of the year on and off the disabled list before finally ending his season in August to undergo surgery with Dr. James Andrews.

As he entered the 2005 season, Andy Pettitte, about to turn 33, had surgery behind him and a challenging start to overcome. However, his fortunes took a dramatic turn for the better in mid-June, and he continued to gain momentum. He managed to secure six consecutive wins in one stretch, followed by another impressive streak of seven consecutive starts. Andy Pettitte’s final statistics for the year revealed a record of 17 wins and 9 losses with an ERA of 2.39, an impressive performance that earned him fifth place in Cy Young Award voting and even garnered some MVP votes. Despite his strong showing, the Astros reached the World Series only to be swept by the White Sox.

The 2006 season saw Andy Pettitte struggling with another slow start. In his first game of the year, he gave up seven earned runs in just 4⅔ innings, setting an inauspicious tone. Moreover, during the first half of the season, he had six starts in which he allowed six or more earned runs. However, as in previous years, his second half showcased his resilience and solid pitching. Andy Pettitte ultimately concluded the season with a 14-13 record and a respectable 4.20 ERA. This marked his final year in Houston, closing a chapter in his career.

Return to the Bronx and PED confession

At the age of 34, Andy Pettitte faced a pivotal decision during the offseason following the 2006 season. He chose to make a return to the Yankees on a one-year contract valued at sixteen million dollars, reuniting with his former teammates, including Jeter, Posada, and Rivera. The team managed to surprise most observers by securing the wildcard, though their postseason journey ended with a loss in the American League Division Series.

The aftermath of the 2007 season brought about a seismic shift in the baseball world with the release of The Mitchell Report. This damning report implicated dozens of players in the use of steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs. Among the listed names was Andy Pettitte, who had used Human Growth Hormone. In contrast to many others who vehemently denied the allegations, including his close friend Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte chose a different path. Andy Pettitte chose to come clean, openly acknowledging that he had been injected with the substance. He pointed out that at the time of his use, it wasn’t a banned substance, and he had taken it not to gain an unfair advantage but rather to expedite his recovery from an elbow injury sustained in 2002.

Andy Pettitte candidly explained his decision, saying, “I felt an obligation to get back to my team as soon as possible. For this reason, and only this reason, for two days I tried Human Growth Hormone.”
The revelation of Roger Clemens as a steroid user sent shockwaves through the baseball world and naturally cast a shadow of doubt over Andy Pettitte due to their close relationship. While some commended Andy Pettitte for his honesty, others emphasized that, even if not explicitly prohibited by baseball, the use of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) was illegal, and Andy Pettitte should have recognized the moral wrongdoing in using it. Throughout his career, he had been renowned for his integrity and honesty.

In contrast to Clemens, who didn’t return for the 2008 season, Andy Pettitte made a comeback. He started 33 games, securing 14 wins while maintaining an ERA of 4.54, his highest since 1999. Unfortunately, it was not a great year for the Yankees, and they missed the playoffs for the first time since 1993. In 2009, Andy Pettitte managed to secure 14 wins once more and improved his ERA to 4.16. He continued to shine in the playoffs, contributing with four wins. Notably, during Game Three of the World Series, he even had an RBI single off Cole Hamels, helping to tie the game in the fifth inning, a key moment in the Yankees’ successful quest for another World Series title.

Retirement, return, and final adieu

In the 2010 season, Andy Pettitte defied his usual performance pattern by embarking on a surprisingly strong start. However, a troublesome groin injury derailed a significant portion of his season, eventually leading him to the decision to retire from the game. To the astonishment of many, less than a year after bidding farewell to baseball, Andy Pettitte experienced a change of heart and penned a minor league contract with the Yankees. This unexpected return to the iconic pinstripes garnered wholehearted enthusiasm throughout the organization, even from the young pitchers vying for a spot on the roster.

The journey back to peak condition required time, limiting Andy Pettitte to just 12 starts in the 2012 season. Despite the restricted opportunities, he managed to maintain an impressive ERA of 2.87. The Yankees clinched the AL East title, but their postseason aspirations took a blow as they were swept in the ALCS, resulting in disappointment. The 2013 season marked Andy Pettitte’s return to New York once more, where he contributed significantly with 30 starts, 11 wins, and a respectable ERA of 3.74. His final start served as the poignant conclusion of a remarkable career, with no intentions of a subsequent return from retirement. It was a memorable performance, a five-hitter against his former team, the Astros, an appearance that frequently ranks high on the lists of unforgettable farewells by legendary pitchers.

During this game, Andy Pettitte walked two batters, struck out five, and completed the full distance for his first full game in seven years. Notably, it marked his 438th start in a Yankees uniform, concluding with the same number as Whitey Ford, the most starts all-time in the pinstripes. Earlier in the year, he had surpassed Ford to secure the top position for strikeouts by a Yankee pitcher, further reinforcing his remarkable legacy.

The legacy

Andy Pettitte Day at Yankee Stadium took place on August 23, 2015, where his number 46 was retired, and his plaque was hung in Monument Park, joining Jeter, Posada, and Rivera – the Core Four.
The plaque highlights Andy Pettitte’s five-time World Champion and three-time All-Star status, emphasizing his consistency with a 219-127 record and 438 starts, tying the franchise record. He also holds the Yankees’ all-time strikeout record with 2,020.

In his first five seasons, Andy Pettitte averaged 17 wins per year, earned two All-Star selections, and received Cy Young votes each season. He was a vital part of the “Core Four” that led the Yankees’ dynasty, shining in the postseason with accolades like the 1997 ALCS MVP.

Andy Pettitte’s impact continued into the late 1990s and early 2000s, including an outstanding eight-inning, one-run performance in the 1998 World Series.

He remained a postseason force with a record 19 career postseason wins and Yankees franchise records in strikeouts and games started by a lefty.

Despite his HGH use briefly tarnishing his legacy, Andy Pettitte’s heartfelt apology and accountability have helped restore his standing as one of the beloved players from that era.

Known for his signature glare under his cap’s brim, Andy Pettitte became a cornerstone of the last true baseball dynasty, anchoring five championship Yankees teams with courage and class.

Andy Pettitte’s pitching repertoire included a four-seam and cut fastball, as well as off-speed pitches like a slider, curveball, and changeup. He had an exceptional pickoff move to first base, recording 98 career pickoffs.

Among Yankees pitchers, Andy Pettitte ranks first in strikeouts (2,020), tied for first in games started (438), and third in wins (219).

He won 20 games in a season twice, was part of numerous pennant-winning and World Series championship teams, and holds the record for the most wins in 2016 postseason history with 19.
Andy Pettitte’s career stats include a 256-153 win-loss record, a 3.85 ERA, and 2,448 strikeouts in 3,316 innings. He never had a losing season in the major leagues.

Alongside Rivera, Andy Pettitte combined for a record 81 win-save combinations, including 11 in the playoffs, making them the most prolific duo in baseball history.

Greatest Moments and Awards

• 3× All-Star (1996, 2001, 2010)
• 5× World Series champion (1996, 1998–2000, 2009)
• AL wins leader (1996)
• New York Yankees No. 46 retired
• Monument Park honoree
• Warren Spahn Award for the best left-handed pitcher in baseball in 2003
• Final victory at old Yankee Stadium against the Orioles
• Strikes out career-high 12 against the Red Sox
• MVP of 2001 ALCS Game 1
• Passes Whitey Ford for most strikeouts in Yankees history
• Helps the Yankees win the World Series in 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2009
• A two-run homer by Bobby Bonilla with two outs in the ninth against closer John Wetteland in the 1996 ALCS
• Retires with a record of 19 postseason wins, the most in MLB history

FAQs

How much is Andy Pettitte worth?

Andy Pettitte has a net worth of $75 million as of 2023.

How old is Andy Pettitte?

Andy Pettitte was born on June 15, 1972, which makes him 51 years old as of November 2, 2023.

Where is Andy Pettitte now?

As of July 23, 2023, Pettitte returned to the New York Yankees as an Advisor Coach.

How tall is Andy Pettitte?

Pettitte is 6’4″ (193 cm) tall.

What is Andy Pettitte doing now?

As of July 23, 2023, Pettitte is an Advisor Coach for the New York Yankees.

When did Andy Pettitte retire?

Pettitte retired from baseball on February 4, 2011, but returned on March 16, 2012, when he signed a one-year $2.5 million contract with the New York Yankees. He announced his ultimate retirement on September 20, 2013, after signing a $12 million deal with the New York Knicks for the 2013 season.

Why is Andy Pettitte not in the Hall of Fame?

Pettitte has not been inducted into the Hall of Fame due to his admission of using human growth hormone (HGH) during his career.

How much is an Andy Pettitte rookie card worth?

The value of an Andy Pettitte’s rookie card varies depending on the card’s condition, rarity, and other factors. As of November 2023, an Upper Deck Andy Pettitte rookie card is worth around $10 to $20.

What year did Andy Pettitte make the Yankees?

Pettitte made his MLB debut with the New York Yankees on April 29, 1995.

Where is Andy Pettitte from?

Pettitte was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in the United States.

Andy Pettitte is what handed?

Andy Pettitte is left-handed.

When was Andy Pettitte drafted?

Pettitte was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 22nd round of the 1990 Major League Baseball draft.

How much is an Upper Deck Andy Pettitte card worth?

As of November 2023, an Upper Deck Andy Pettitte card is worth around $10 to $20.

What ethnicity is Andy Pettitte?

Andy Pettitte is of Italian and Cajun origin, and his ethnicity is White.

What speed did Andy Pettitte throw?

Andy Pettitte’s pitching speed typically ranged from 84 to 88 miles per hour (mph).

What nationality is Andy Pettitte?

Andy Pettitte is an American.

Why did Andy Pettitte use performance-enhancing drugs?

Pettitte admitted to using human growth hormone (HGH) to recover from an injury in 2002.

How many wins did Andy Pettitte have?

Pettitte won 256 games in his career.

What does Andy Pettitte do now?

As of July 23, 2023, Pettitte is an Advisor Coach for the New York Yankees.

Why did Andy Pettitte leave the Yankees?

Andy Pettitte initially left the Yankees after the 2003 season to join the Houston Astros. He later returned to the Yankees in 2007 and continued playing for them until his retirement in 2013.

How much does Andy Pettitte make?

Andy made $12 million in his last year with the Yankees (2013). In 2023, he returned as the Yankees’ pitching adviser for a few months. But his compensation details are unknown.

The Stats

Standard pitching

Postseason pitching

Career graph

Sources: SABR, Baseball-Reference

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