Allan James "A. J." Burnett, a right-handed pitcher known for his powerful fastball and sharp curve, spent 17 seasons in Major League Baseball. His career began when the New York Mets selected him in the eighth round of the 1995 MLB Draft. However, it was with the Florida Marlins that Burnett made his major league debut in 1999, after being traded to the team in 1998.
Burnett's early years with the Marlins were marked by flashes of brilliance, including a no-hitter against the San Diego Padres on May 12, 2001. Despite walking nine batters, Burnett managed to keep the Padres hitless, showcasing his potential as a dominant pitcher. His tenure with the Marlins was also characterized by struggles with injuries, which limited his playing time and consistency.
In 2006, Burnett signed a five-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he continued to demonstrate his ability to strike out batters with ease. His time in Toronto was highlighted by a career-high 231 strikeouts in 2008, which helped him opt out of his contract and enter free agency.
The New York Yankees acquired Burnett in 2009, signing him to a lucrative five-year deal. His first season with the Yankees was a memorable one, as he played a crucial role in the team's World Series victory. Burnett's performance in Game 2 of the World Series was particularly noteworthy, as he pitched seven strong innings against the Philadelphia Phillies, helping the Yankees secure a win.
Despite his success in 2009, Burnett's subsequent seasons with the Yankees were inconsistent. He struggled with control issues and posted higher earned run averages, leading to frustration among fans and management. In 2012, the Yankees traded Burnett to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he experienced a career resurgence.
With the Pirates, Burnett became a veteran leader and a reliable presence in the starting rotation. His performance in 2012 and 2013 helped the Pirates reach the postseason for the first time in over two decades. Burnett's fiery demeanor and competitive spirit endeared him to Pittsburgh fans, and he played a significant role in the team's success during his tenure.
After a brief stint with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2014, Burnett returned to the Pirates for his final season in 2015. He was selected to his first and only All-Star Game that year, a fitting recognition of his contributions to the game. Burnett announced his retirement at the end of the 2015 season, concluding a career that saw him amass over 2,500 strikeouts and 164 wins.
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