New York Yankees: Sabathia’s return is good for contending team

CC Sabathia still has some gas left in the tank. After signing with the Yankees on Saturday, he has another year to get one more World Series on his resume.

It wasn’t a deal for Gerrit Cole or Michael Fulmer, but it could be crucial nonetheless for the New York Yankees.

The New York Yankees signed CC Sabathia to a one-year, $10 million deal Saturday, guaranteeing the southpaw at least one more season in the big leagues. Sabathia enjoyed a strong 2017 campaign, so the move is not too farfetched.

The New York Yankees officially have their rotation – six men including Chad Green – but may not be done. Cole and Fulmer are still on the radar. The Pirates and Tigers are asking for a sizable return, and the Yankees have all of the pieces to strike a deal.

Whether they acquire them or not, Sabathia’s experience and presence will help. He can relieve Jordan Montgomery from amassing countless innings in the rotation as well. Although he wasn’t a part of the top-10 pitching options this offseason, he can ultimately prove to be one.

The 37-year workhorse enters his 18th year of service. He remained consistent during his first four years in the Bronx before a lingering knee issue caused problems. Between 2013 and 2015, he posted a bloated 4.81 ERA.

Most fans abandoned him, believing his time was up. But then he rebounded well in 2016 and pitched even better this past season, at least on the surface.

Sabathia led New York in wins last year but received much help from his defense. His FIP during the past two seasons were in the same neighborhood as his trio of down seasons. Yet, his postseason numbers me be most notable when considering reasons to re-sign him.

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The starter pitched in the playoffs for six straight seasons, garnering some pretty impressive numbers.

What stood out most was his effectiveness against the eventual World Series winners. He allowed just one earned run in 9 1/3 innings despite issuing seven walks.

A rematch could be in the forecast, although there are several variables that will play a role in that.

Sabathia is one of the team’s ultimate teammates, and having him around can be beneficial for an overly young pitching staff.

New York will likely monitor his innings, primarily if the front office acquires another starter. But for now, he owns a position in the rotation and has an opportunity for another ring.

Sabathia clearly won’t be the ace he used to be. His strikeout stuff isn’t as sharp, and his health isn’t as robust – what near-40-year-old player is?

Next: The Yankees will land Gerrit Cole soon

Nevertheless, Yankees fans will be happy to see him back in the Big Apple. He led the team to a title in 2009.

Now it’s time for the team to lead him back to the Fall Classic.