CC Sabathia's 'Surreal' Yankees Moment: Jersey Retired, Plaque Unveiled
Former pitcher reflects on his decision to join the Yankees and the unexpected honor of having his number retired.
CC Sabathia received a "surreal" honor Friday as the New York Yankees retired his No. 52 jersey and unveiled a plaque in Monument Park, commemorating his impactful career with the team.
Sabathia, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2025 with 86.8 percent of the vote, recalled his initial hesitation to join the Yankees in 2009. He was intimidated by the pressure of New York City and had seen other players struggle under its intensity. "I wasn’t convinced, I was still looking for other options," Sabathia said.
However, a pivotal conversation with then-General Manager Brian Cashman swayed his decision. Cashman visited Sabathia at his home and expressed his long-term pursuit of the pitcher, believing Sabathia could significantly impact the team's clubhouse and structure. "That conversation was the reason I ended up signing," Sabathia stated.
The decision proved to be highly successful, as Sabathia was instrumental in leading the Yankees to their 27th World Series title in 2009. Over 11 seasons in pinstripes, he amassed 132 wins, a 3.81 ERA, and 1,700 strikeouts, earning three All-Star Game selections.
The jersey retirement ceremony on Friday placed Sabathia among Yankees legends. He was joined by his wife Amber, mother Margie, and two of his children. Video tributes were played from former teammates and manager Joe Girardi, including Jorge Posada, Paul O’Neill, Bernie Williams, and Derek Jeter. On the field, former teammates such as Jeter, Dellin Betances, Andy Pettitte, and Chris Young were present to celebrate the occasion.
Sabathia received a blue blazer, a framed replica of his retired number and plaque, and a commemorative ring. He threw out the ceremonial first pitch to his son, Carsten, who is now in the Brewers' minor league system.
"I never envisioned myself going into Monument Park," Sabathia reflected. "I think that was the reason why I was so scared to come here is because you don’t ever think you’re going to win the Yankee fans over or the city over. So to be able to be sitting here now, playing here 11 years, is an incredible feeling and that’s why I’ve said the last couple of weeks this feels bigger to me than the Hall of Fame because I know what was at stake when I came here."
Sabathia is the fifth member of the 2009 World Series championship team to have his number retired, joining Jeter, Pettitte, Mariano Rivera, and Jorge Posada.