Izzy played for five teams in his career. (US Presswire)

Longtime big-leaguer Jason Isringhausen has retired as a player and joined the coaching staff at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. He will serve as the team's pitching coach, according to the school's website.

"He obviously knows the game at the highest level," said interim head coach Tony Stoecklin. "What has impressed me most is his ability to teach what he knows ... The guys are listening. They're soaking up every ounce of information he gives them."

"I enjoy the teaching aspect," added Isringhausen. "I feel like I have a lot to offer ... At this level, the players all have talent. I'm here to fine-tune. I want to help the pitchers get the most out of that talent."

Isringhausen, 40, is from nearby Brighton, Ill. He pitched to a 4.14 ERA in 45 2/3 innings for the Angels last season, and he saved exactly 300 games in parts of 16 big-league seasons. The Mets drafted him in the 44th round of the 1991 draft, though he spent most of his career with the Cardinals. Isringhausen is a rare three-time Tommy John surgery patient.

SIUE was granted full Division I certification by the NCAA last summer. The Cougars begin their baseball season tomorrow with a three-game series at Lipscomb.

Update: Isringhausen's representatives at the Beverly Hills Sports Council clarified things:

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