Randy Johnson announces retirement

One of the best left-handed pitchers in the history of baseball, Randy Johnson has announced his retirement from baseball after 22 professional seasons.

"I really wanted to go out on my terms," Johnson said. "I just feel like there's not a lot more for me to do in this game. I just think it's a natural progression when you play this long. Eventually you have to say it's time." 

Johnson, a five-time Cy Young award winner and 10-time All-Star, posted a 303-166 record in over 4,100 innings with the Expos, Mariners, Astros, Diamondbacks, Yankees, and Giants. 

Johnson won a World Series in Arizona, taking co-World Series MVP with fellow ace Curt Schilling. He also has thrown two no-hitters, and is second on the career strikeout list. 

"It's all been a bit of a whirlwind. I never really got caught up in what I did," Johnson said. "I never really dwelled on my achievements. They're nice. Maybe now I'll be able to reflect on them." 

Randy Johnson will certainly be a first-ballot Hall of Famer when he is eligible in 2014.