End of an Era

It's official, Greg Maddux has retired. See his news conference here.

While tossing a three-hit, 89-pitch shutout at Yankee Stadium in 1997, Greg Maddux was strolling toward the dugout when he was stopped by umpire John Hirschbeck. The mid-inning exchange puzzled then-Braves pitching coach Leo Mazzone, who immediately asked, "What did he say to you?"

After replying, "He told me I'm as good as advertised," Maddux smirked and added, "Isn't that something, Leo? Not only do I have to live up to the expectations of the fans, but now I have to live up to the expectations of the umpires, too."

During a career that included 355 wins and four consecutive National League Cy Young Awards (1992-95), Maddux exceeded the expectations that have been placed on any pitcher and established himself as one of the greatest individuals to stand on a mound.

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Here is another great article with quotes Maddux, the bearded wonder himself John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Bobby Cox, and Leo Mazzone. Read it here.