Millwood announces retirement

Right-hander Kevin Millwood told a North Carolina newspaper that he is retiring after a 16-year major league career.

Millwood, 38, made the announcement during a function at his high school in Bessemer City.

"I'm just ready to retire," Millwood told the Shelby Star. "I feel like I can still throw it well and going out on a high note is a big deal. I just felt it was time to be closer to home and to be around the kids more often."

He said he plans to spend more time with his two pre-teen sons and hunting, fishing and coaching youth sports.

Millwood, who played for seven major league teams, finished his career with a 169-152 record with a 4.11 ERA and 1.33 WHIP. Last season, he went 6-12 with a 4.25 ERA and 1.39 WHIP with the Seattle Mariners.