LeBron James and Derek Jeter are among those who have sent well-wishes to New York Yankees lefty CC Sabathia for his upcoming retirement.
Derek Jeter and LeBron James have at least one thing in common, other than taking their talents to South Beach. They’re both huge fans of New York Yankees starting pitcher CC Sabathia.
The 38-year-old let the world know on Saturday that he’s definitely not planning on returning after the 2019 season.
That announcement prompted a wave of reactions from other athletes and celebrities, which the Yankees compiled and published via YES Network.
Derek Jeter
Former Bombers shortstop and current Miami Marlins CEO Derek Jeter issued a rather formal statement:
“I had the pleasure of competing against CC and also with him, and have always considered him one of my favorite teammates. He rose to and exceeded the expectations and pressure, especially during his time with the Yankees, and was a key piece to the 2009 championship team. CC embodies what it means to be a professional athlete and has been an incredible ambassador for Baseball. He has an unwavering commitment to success on the field and an even greater desire to give back through his foundation work off the field.”
Jeter and Sabathia were teammates in the Bronx for six years (2009-2014). The two faced each other when Sabathia played for the Cleveland Indians, and Jeter hit .500 (13-for-26) in those encounters.
Other former Bombers who sent warm wishes included Andy Pettitte, Jorge Posada, and Joe Girardi.
LeBron James
It wasn’t just Yankees who penned their appreciation for Sabathia. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James got in on the action as well:
“I want to congratulate CC on an incredible Major League career. Not only is he one of the best pitchers to ever play the game, but he’ll also go down as one of the great competitors to ever pick up a baseball. His genuine love of the game and his undeniable passion have brought so much joy to fans for 19 seasons. It’s been an honor to watch him play and I’m excited to see what he’ll take on next. Congrats my friend.”
James of course began his NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers when Sabathia was a member of the Indians. They shared the city from 2003 to midway through 2008, when the Indians traded Sabathia to the Milwaukee Brewers.
[membership level="0"] [/membership]Everyone else
Former New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, Bronx-born rapper Fat Joe, and Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr also made statements regarding CC’s retirement.
Now that everyone knows 2019 is Sabathia’s final MLB campaign, the hefty lefty will certainly receive many more farewells.
And if everything goes well, his current teammates will give him a second World Series ring for a parting gift.
