The ‘core four’ is now down to just two after the Yankees star catcher, Jorge Posada emotionally announced his retirement on Tuesday, January 24th. Coming up from the minor leagues 17 years ago, Posada has had an incredible journey filled with experiences to last a lifetime.

“Today’s a very emotional day for me, I will officially announce that I am retiring from playing the game of baseball,” Posada said in a press conference.

As he tearfully said farewell, he gave a sincere thanks to all of the people, past and present, who have been part of his success. He referred to his wife Laura as his “rock” and strength and his two children as his inspiration.

Posada was called up to the Yankees in 1995 along with current, captain and short stop Derek Jeter, starting pitcher Andy Pettitte who retired last February, and current relief pitcher, Mariano Rivera all with whom he’s formed life-long friendships with.

Posada dreamt about playing for the Yankees even when he was a little kid and being able to live his dream has been an honor. He feels, “the Yankees are the best baseball franchise in the world,” and is “thankful for the opportunity and privilege of wearing pinstripes for 17 years.”

“I am devastated to see him go because he was one of my favorite players. I think the team will be okay without him; however, the rest of the Yankee players are going to have to work harder since he is not included in the team anymore,” said Sara Schiffman, sixth grader.

Throughout his years on the team, Posada has been a part of seven World Series, winning an elusive five rings. According to espn.go.com, he had over 1,500 hits, currently ranks eighth for the most home-runs in a Yankees uniform with 275, and ended his astonishing career with a .273 average.

“I think it was a good decision to retire because he served his time on the Yankees even though he was a great player. I think what he has accomplished is something that will be with him and that he will always remember for the rest of his life,” said Jessica Winowsky, junior.

Quoting Joe DiMaggio, every time he walked through the doors of Yankee Stadium he repeated to himself, ‘I want to thank the good lord for making me a Yankee.’” Posada will “forever be a Yankee.”