In the latest development of a tumultuous Yankees offseason, star pitcher Andy Pettitte declined his $16 million option for 2008. However, his agent stressed that Pettitte's choice was between the Yankees or retirement, saying, "If Andy decides to play, I am confident we can reach an agreement with the Yankees in 24 hours." General manager Brian Cashman told the Daily News he wanted Pettitte to return. "In fact, I'd say I need him to," he said.
The 35-year-old went 15-9 in 2007 and was the only effective Yankees starter in yet another curtailed postseason. His announcement comes after manager Joe Torre rejected a one-year contract and megawatt third baseman Alex Rodriguez opted out of his contract as well. The fates of two other key Yankee free agents, closer Mariano Rivera and catcher Jorge Posada are still in doubt. (More MLB stories.)