Former Yankees reliever Zack Britton retires

Retired former Yankees pitcher, Zack Britton, made the decision to end his 12-year MLB career. His last appearance in the big leagues was in 2022.

Known for his devastating hard sinker, Britton joined the Yankees in 2018 and signed a lucrative three-year, $39 million deal with a club option for a fourth season. Despite a strong 2019 season, injuries and consistency issues plagued the lefty, ultimately leading to his retirement in 2022.

Britton reflected on his rushed return from surgery in an attempt to aid the Yanks in the playoffs during his final season, expressing regret over his last pitch and acknowledging that it wasn’t a career highlight. He pitched just 38 innings over his last three seasons, tallying 15 saves with the Yankees, and pitching to a 2.75 ERA in 124.1 innings with a 2.95 ERA in 18.1 postseason innings.

Britton cherished his time with the Yankees, emphasizing the team’s history and the respect they received, despite his desire for a World Series win and reduced injuries. In addressing the Yankees’ struggles, Britton emphasized the need to restore the team’s intimidating presence, reflecting on his experience as a young player facing the Yankees’ formidable teams.

Britton concludes his career with a 35-26 record and a career 3.13 ERA over 641.0 innings in 442 games, transitioning from a struggling early career with the Orioles to finding success as a two-time All-Star closer Baltimore with three seasons of over 35 saves, including a league-leading 47 in 2016.