Brewers: Pitcher Dontrelle Willis ending comeback bid, will retire at 33

PHOENIX (AP) — The Milwaukee Brewers say pitcher Dontrelle Willis is ending his comeback bid and will retire at 33.

A popular star a decade ago, Willis was in the Brewers' camp on a Minor League contract. He had not pitched in a Spring Training game this year, and hasn't been in the majors since 2011 with Cincinnati.

Willis was the NL Rookie of the Year in 2003 and helped the Marlins win the World Series. Nicknamed the "D-Train" and known for his energetic personality and high leg-kick style, Willis was a 22-game winner in 2005.

The left-hander was traded with Miguel Cabrera to Detroit after the 2007 season. Willis has been with seven other Major League organizations since then. He pitched in Triple-A with San Francisco and in an independent league last year.

Related stories: