CC Sabathia’s induction into the Hall of Fame highlights the lasting influence of the Yankees

CC Sabathia Inducted into the Hall of Fame

COOPERSTOWN — When Brian Cashman brought CC Sabathia to New York before the 2009 season, he understood that it would take more than just a hefty contract to convince him to join the Yankees.

“I spoke to him and Amber,” Cashman recalled on Sunday, just before Sabathia’s induction speech. “I honestly saw him as a key player. I put a lot of money on the table, but I sensed he was uncertain about playing in New York. I believe we both kept our promises: he became a Hall of Fame pitcher, and he and his family thrived in the city.”

Judging by Sabathia’s speech that day, Cashman’s approach clearly paid off. “Big Lefty” spent over 12 minutes speaking, reflecting on his journey with heartfelt mentions of his wife, mother Margie, who was present, and even his grandmother and aunts.

He expressed gratitude for his father, Corky, who passed away early in Sabathia’s career, acknowledging that his father never held him back. He also discussed the impactful women in his life, noting how they supported him in different phases.

In a nostalgic moment, Sabathia fondly recalled playing catch in his grandmother’s backyard, saying, “I realized I could really throw hard,” emphasizing the importance of the community around him that “literally saved me a few times.”

His mother played a significant role too, teaching him about baseball and instilling a love for the game by taking him to Oakland Athletics games during his childhood.

“My mother loved baseball,” Sabathia noted. “That’s why I became a fan. Fans can turn into players who eventually get inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

Sabathia’s career took off in Cleveland, where he spent his first eight years after being drafted in 1998. He then solidified his position during a brief stint with Milwaukee, leading them to the postseason in 2008, even while facing impending free agency.

However, it was in the Bronx that he truly made his mark, spending his last 11 seasons there and helping the Yankees clinch the 2009 World Series.

“He had a great reputation as a pitcher, and that became evident even before he was inducted,” Cashman said, praising Sabathia for transforming the team’s culture during his tenure.

Cashman added, “The clubhouse was struggling. He became a key connector among the players and had a lasting influence.”

His impact is still felt today, with former teammates often looking to Sabathia as a model for their own gameplay.

Before his injury stint, Aaron Judge emphasized how Sabathia’s dedication in 2019 inspired him to push through his own struggles on the field. Judge remarked, “You could see Sabathia give everything he had, motivating all of us.”

“That last run exemplified his determination,” he continued. “He threw until he couldn’t throw anymore. Even though we didn’t finish that year successfully, he understood that giving your all was essential.”