The New York Yankees are set to honor one of their legendary figures, CC Sabathia, by retiring his No. 52 jersey and adding a plaque to Monument Park. This announcement comes a year after Sabathia's induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame as a first-ballot selection. The ceremony is slated for September 26, making Sabathia the 24th Yankee player or manager to receive this prestigious recognition, joining the ranks of Paul O’Neill, Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, Jorge Posada, and Mariano Rivera from the 2009 World Series championship team.
Reflecting on this honor, Sabathia expressed his gratitude and nostalgia: "From the first number that hung in my locker to 52 forever hanging in Monument Park - this HOF journey has come full circle. To have my number retired by the New York Yankees this year is one of the greatest honors of my life. The LegaCCy continues."
Sabathia, who signed with the Yankees as a free agent before the 2009 season, spent 11 memorable seasons in pinstripes. During his tenure, he posted a 134-88 record over 307 games, boasting a 3.81 ERA. His time with the Yankees saw him earn three American League All-Star selections and a third-place finish in the Cy Young Award voting in 2010.
Perhaps Sabathia's most iconic contribution came during the Yankees' 2009 postseason march. He delivered a masterful 1.98 ERA over five games, earning the AL Championship Series MVP honors and etching his name into Yankees lore.
Throughout his illustrious career, which also included stints with Milwaukee and Cleveland, Sabathia accumulated a 251-161 record and a 3.74 ERA, with 3,093 strikeouts. He stands among an elite group of left-handers, including Randy Johnson, Clayton Kershaw, and Steve Carlton, to have surpassed the 3,000-strikeout milestone.
Aaron Judge, reflecting on Sabathia's Hall of Fame induction, praised him as "an incredible competitor, teammate, and leader who embodied the heart and soul of our team and this city. CC led by example, demonstrating courage, resilience, and integrity in the face of adversity - literally leaving it all out on the field. His legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments, as he’s left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone who got the opportunity to share the field with him."
Since hanging up his cleats at the end of the 2019 season, Sabathia has continued to influence the game, serving as a special assistant to commissioner Rob Manfred. In 2024, the Guardians honored him by inducting him into their Hall of Fame and dedicating a youth baseball field in his name, celebrating his impact as a three-time All-Star with Cleveland.