The Yankees’ Bernie Williams to Officially Retire on Friday

After nine years, Bernie Williams will finally make it official. The New York Yankees say Bernie Williams will sign a minor league contract Friday and then officially retire. The NY Post reports that there will be a news conference with Williams before Friday night’s game against the NY Mets, and Williams will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Williams became a free agent after the 2006 season. He declined the Yankees’ offer to attend spring training in 2007 on a minor league contract and never played play again. Williams was a five-time All-Star with the Yankees from 1991-2006, hitting .297 with 287 homers and 1,257 RBIs. He earned four World Series rings and won the 1998 AL batting title.

Williams will have his number No. 51 jersey retired on May 24.