New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia has said goodbye.
Even though CC Sabathia did not pitch on September 22, 2019, this Sunday was a special day for him, as it was his last regular season home game in a New York Yankees uniform. As we wiped away tears, Sabathia had an opportunity to say a proper goodbye to the fanbase that has been supporting him since 2009.
Sabathia, his family, his fans, and the New York Yankees were all moved by the touching tribute displayed at Yankee Stadium. He threw out the first pitch before the game to his mother, his first catcher. It was a beyond special moment for him and his family.
“It’s been a great 11 years,” Sabathia said before the New York Yankees’ regular-season home finale Sunday against Toronto.
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As he was giving a speech, the six-time All-Star thanked the clubhouse and training staff by their first names. This type of class and courtesy has been illustrated throughout Sabathia’s whole career. He has always been known to be a classy veteran.
As he is about to retire, he does not see his tenure with the Yankees coming to an end. He envisions himself as an adviser or an instructor for the clubhouse or the front office. He wants to “live at the stadium.” Just because his days as a player are winding down; he does not see himself distancing away from the franchise. He wants to remain a part of the Yankees as long as he can.
The 39-year-old lefty has a 251-161 record, posting a 3.74 ERA and 3,091 strikeouts. He won 134 of his games as a Yankee, as well as leading the AL in wins in his first two seasons in the Bronx. He joined the Yankees prior to the 2009 season, signing a record-breaking seven-year, $161 million contract. He became the highest paid pitcher at the time. After his monster contract expired, the Yankees brought him back on a pair of one-year deals for 2018 and 2019.
He won the AL Cy Young award in 2007,and also had four other top-five finishes on the ballot.
CC is looking forward to coming out of the bullpen for the Yankees this postseason. Having a veteran lefty like him that has been to the playoffs nine time throughout his career.
He looks to win his second World Series ring with the New York Yankees. He is hopeful for his possibility to make it to Cooperstown, but it will definitely be a highly debated topic.
A long and respectful career is coming to a close to one of the last workhorses baseball will see. CC Sabathia will be missed.