Andy Pettitte finally reports to spring training today, and he’ll spend the day talking about his use of Human Growth Hormone:
TAMPA, Fla. — Andy Pettitte will not be under oath Monday, but he will be in the spotlight when he meets with the news media for the first time to discuss his admitted use of human growth hormone.
Pettitte, the Yankees veteran left-handed pitcher, has scheduled an afternoon news conference at the team’s spring training headquarters here. His use of human growth hormone was first revealed when the Mitchell report was released Dec. 13.
Pettitte confirmed the report’s account that he had used H.G.H. in 2002, and he later said in an affidavit to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform that he had used H.G.H. in 2004 as well. H.G.H. was banned by baseball in 2005.
Manager Joe Girardi and General Manager Brian Cashman are expected to be in the audience as Pettitte speaks Monday, after reporting four days later than other pitchers and catchers. On Sunday, Girardi predicted Pettitte would be candid.
“No one wants to carry that weight around on your shoulders,” Girardi said. “It’s always better when you get it off your chest. Andy’s always been an honest guy. So I think he’ll tell you as much as he can legally tell you.”
This isn’t going to go away with a press conference, of course. Pettitte faces a difficult season ahead both on the road, and given what happened with Clemens, at home. How he handles it will be interesting to watch.
