Morning Marquee: Andy Pettitte to have number retired

The biggest story coming out of the world of Major League Baseball – apart from pitchers and catchers reporting this week – came out of the Bronx, where the New York Yankees announced plans to retire former left-hander Andy Pettitte‘s number this season.

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The southpaw – who is widely regarded as one of the most dominant postseason pitchers in Major League Baseball history – racked up 256 wins during his big league career, including 219 ‘W’s as a member of the Yankees. During the postseason, Pettitte won 19 games during his career – as part of New York’s dynasty in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The Chicago Cubs are nearing the report date for pitchers and catchers – and as Spring Training nears, the roster questions are already beginning to swirl. We took a look at whether or not Mike Olt stands a chance at breaking camp as the big league club’s starting third baseman yesterday – which seems like a possibility given Kris Bryant will probably begin the year with Triple-A Iowa.

In other big league news, Major League Baseball is reportedly looking at shrinking the strike zone next season – another bold, forward-thinking idea of new commissioner Rob Manfred – who has been very active since taking over for former leader Bud Selig.

Here’s more:

“New York Yankees to retire Andy Pettitte’s number 46” – Yanks Go Yard

“Mike Olt could be a surprise contributor to 2015 Chicago Cubs” – Cubbies Crib

“Pittsburgh Pirates, Kansas City Royals net two of top ten relievers apiece” – Rum Bunter

“Rangers’ Yu Darvish needs to focus on durability this season” – Call to the Pen

“Cubs building depth behind the dish throughout organization” – Cubbies Crib

Next: Cubs, Hector Rondon will both be improved again in 2015