Yankees' CC Sabathia doesn't mind missing Opening Day as he prepares for final MLB season

Veteran is more focused on getting to the World Series before retiring

3/27/2019, 2:09 PM
Feb 14, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher CC Sabathia (52) throws during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports / Kim Klement
Feb 14, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher CC Sabathia (52) throws during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports / Kim Klement

CC Sabathia isn't bummed out about not being ready for Opening Day.

The veteran lefty, who continues to make progress as he works his way back from a heart procedure and knee surgery, has bigger goals in mind for his final MLB season.

"Opening Day is not that special, I'd rather be there for the World Series," Sabathia told the Associated Press on Tuesday after making his second spring start in a Triple-A game.

Sabathia will be on the Yankees' 25-man roster to open the season in order to serve the five-game suspension he received last season, but he won't be with the team. He'll remain in Florida and go on the injured list after five games until he's ready to start within the next few weeks.

The 38-year-old threw 40 pitches in three innings on Tuesday, allowing one run on two hits while striking out three. He's scheduled to pitch again on Monday, according to the AP.

"I felt great," Sabathia said. "Just try to build up for the next start."


HARPER: 10 bold predictions for 2019 MLB season, including Yankees going all the way >> Read more

Popular in the Community