In criticizing unnamed Republican leaders for doing “everything in their power to dry up my fundraising,” Kentucky Sen. Jim Bunning didn’t give a run-of-the-mill retirement announcement.

Jim Bunning (CQ/Scott J. Ferrell)

Political reporters are accustomed to members of Congress announcing their departure by saying that they’ve accomplished all of their goals in office or that they “want to spend more time with my family,” even in cases when it’s clear there are political factors influencing the decision.

But Bunning’s goodbye on Monday was high and tight, just like the fastballs he used to throw as a Hall of Fame pitcher.