The Yankee left-hander has started 40 postseason games in his Major League career. In those games, Andy Pettitte is 18-9 with a 3.90 ERA. He also has five World Series rings.

How could a pitcher with that résumé feel a responsibility to a minor league team?

Well, it’s simple. Andy Pettitte needed to pitch a rehab assignment. The Yankees’ Double-A affiliate, Trenton Thunder, is in the playoffs.

How about that for a lift for a playoff team? You will be starting Andy Pettitte in Game 2.

Even the major league Yankees would be happy with having Pettitte start a pivotal game in the playoffs. That is exactly what Pettitte is working his way towards.

Pettitte pitched four scoreless innings against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats last night, allowing just two hits and striking out four. It was his first appearance in a game since going on the disabled list with a groin injury on July 21st.

The lefty did not walk a batter, throwing 37 of 51 pitches for strikes.

Continue this article at Double G Sports.

Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com