A lot has been made by the Yankees media and the baseball world in general of the Yankees’ fragile state. As previously noted, the Yankees are positioned to have a surprising season, but there’s a lot of variables that could shift still due to injuries. Many of these names discussed include Alex Rodriguez, Mark Teixeira, and Jacoby Ellsbury. All are solid baseball players, but have lingering age and injury questions. Then there’s Aroldis Chapman’s off-field troubles, as well.

But one person who hasn’t been discussed much? C.C. Sabathia.

Photo by Chris McGrath

The former Yankees ace has been through a lot over the last few years. His last winning record was in 2013 with 14-13 alongside a 4.78 ERA. That wasn’t overly stellar, though the year before was 15-6 with a 3.38 ERA. 2014 was rough going 3-4 and a 5.28 ERA, while last year wasn’t anything different going 6-10 and a 4.73 ERA.

With the exception of the injury-plagued 2014 season, Sabathia’s 137 strikeouts last year was the lowest since 128 in 2008.

In short, it’s been a rough time. But there is reason to believe in change.

Sabathia returned from the Disabled List on September 9th and pitched a 2.17 ERA over five starts.

Sabathia again created a stir when he announced he would not be on the postseason roster and instead be opting for rehab. While many mistakenly labeled this as selfish, it should be labeled selfless instead. Admitting an addict has a problem is a significant step, regardless of what the addiction is. Without getting into the debate too much, this took a strong man who needed change to admit.

Yes, it was bad timing in terms of baseball, but life is too short. And from a baseball perspective, getting cleaned up gives Sabathia more time to get himself in the right state of mind and be on track with his improving performance on the field.

C.C. Sabathia has already had a reputation for being a strong competitor and a dominant force on the mound. As he looks to redefine the declining narrative, he has reasons off and on the field to look up. He’s turned his career for the better, as well as his life.

Sabathia’s moment is coming in 2016.

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