3/6/12

Exclusive Statement from P Brant Rustich


Hey Mack,

I regret to inform you that today I decided to retire from playing baseball. It was the most difficult decision of my life, but it's one I feel was right. My arm just cannot withstand the workload to pitch at this level.  The more I throw, the more the nerves continue to flare in my arm causing pain, numbness and fatigue. My own understanding from years of experience with this injury, I felt it was time to move on in my life and retire from baseball.

I can't begin to express the appreciation I have for the New York Mets organization. From the start to finish, they have always supported me with the best instruction, training staff, and medical attention. Whenever I needed something, the Mets delivered. I was always given prompt treatment and medical attention from the very best doctors in the world. The simple fact they have stuck with me this long despite injury speaks volumes. It's was a privilege to be a part of this organization and I can't thank them enough.

I want to thank my family and friends for all the support throughout my life and career. I know I've always had people pulling for me, and it was them that helped get me through the pain and heartache.  I'm very proud to say I did everything I could. I always followed the rules, showed up on time, and worked hard to give myself the best opportunity to succeed. Unfortunately, injuries are a part of life and this game. I'm not the first player, nor the last to have a career ending injury.

I'm very content where I am in my life and look forward to whatever comes next for me. I will continue to be a part of the game, and I believe I will again be able to appreciate the game for what it is, rather than the frustrations and stresses that I've grown to know so well coming to the park everyday. I'd also like to thank the fans. It's always been a dream since I signed to play in New York. Keep supporting the players. I'll always be a Met.

Lastly, I want to thank my loving fiance for being with me through thick and thin over the last 6 years. It's been a wonderful ride with you by my side.

Thanks!

Brant

3 comments:

Michael S. said...

Sorry to hear this, I was hoping Brant would be able to pull through this year and make his way up the depth charts. Best of luck to him in the next chapter in his life.

Jarod said...

Very best to him. My thanks for pushing your body beyond its limitation.

David Rubin said...

Brant is a true "gamer" and we know that he did everything humanly possible to get through this process and return to pitching successfully. We are all huge fans of Brant here at Mack's Mets, and we wish him only great things as he takes on the next portion of his life. With his tenacity and talent, whatever it is that he pursues (and hopefully it will be something in baseball), he is bound to be successful at it. Thanks, Brant, for being a great friend to this site, and here's wishing you continued success and happiness in all that you do!!