02/17/2012 by Bill Passonno |

Wakefield opts for retirement

After baffling hitters for 19 seasons with his trademark knuckleball, Boston pitcher Tim Wakefield announced his retirement on Friday. Wakefield, 45, spent the past 17 years with the Red Sox after starting his career in the majors with Pittsburgh in 1992. He compiled a career record of 200-180 and posted a 4.41 ERA as he also pitched out of the bullpen for Boston. Wakefield's 186 wins with the Red Sox are six shy of the team record.