No more knucklers

Tim Wakefield is retiring after pitching the last 17 seasons for the Boston Red Sox. The 45-year-old knuckleballer made the announcement at the team’s spring training facility Friday. After two seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, the right-hander signed as a minor-league free agent in April 1995. He was 186-168 with a 4.43 ERA with the Red Sox. Only Roger Clemens and Cy Young had more wins (192) with the team. Wakefield (pictured) is first in team history with 3,006 innings and 430 starts, and second in games and strikeouts. “There were a few seasons I didn’t know if I was coming back, but I kept coming back and proving myself year after year,” Wakefield said. “I was fortunate enough to play 17 years here. It’s been a great one. I’ve been very blessed. I am just very grateful.” – AP