Central Islip, NY (My Sportsbook) - Controversial reliever John Rocker had his stint in New York cut short, as he was released by the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League on Monday. Rocker, who went 0-2 with a 6.50 ERA in 23 appearances with Long Island, said he decided to take a step back from baseball and assess his future playing career. "After pitching for two months with the Long Island Ducks, the consistency required to pitch at the major league level, and the consistency I demand from myself, are not where they should be," Rocker said in a statement. "As a result, I have elected to take a step back and reevaluate the options available to me." The 30-year-old Rocker compiled a 13-22 record with a 3.42 ERA in his six years in the majors with Atlanta, Cleveland, Texas and Tampa Bay. He had 38 saves for the Braves in 1999. However, Rocker was better known for his degrading remarks made in Sports Illustrated in 1999, directed at minorities, gays and immigrants. "We respect John's decision," said Ducks principal owner Frank Boulton. "Obviously, we're disappointed we didn't return him to the majors. We know the talent is there and I'm sure we haven't heard the last from John in baseball." |
