Just in case you needed any more proof that it is, in fact, about the money, left-hander C.C. Sabathia agreed Wednesday to sign the richest contract for a pitcher in baseball history.
The New York Yankees will give Sabathia $161 million over seven years. As we all know, C.C. stands for "Captain Cheeseburger." With that kind of dough, he can buy the company that makes the cheeseburgers.
But back to my point about it being about the money: For months, we've been hearing about how Sabathia liked the relative obscurity of Milwaukee. Hey, he might stay with the Brewers!!!!
Uh, no.
For months, we've been hearing about how Sabathia likes the West Coast, where he grew up. Hey, he might sign with the Dodgers or the Giants!!!!
Uh, no.
For months, we've been hearing about how Sabathia loves to swing the bat. Hey, there's no doubt he's staying in the National League!!!!!
How about, uh, no.
Instead, Sabathia took the best financial offer. And, of course, the Yankees have the money. That's how it works in baseball.
Too often, fans think all these intangible things are important to players. Most often, that's not the case. Sure, you can point to a few exceptions. But the reality is most top free agents go for the top dollars.
Can't say I blame Sabathia. If someone offers you the world, what are you supposed to do? Say no?
Sabathia will be a good regular season pitcher, but his presence is not going to impact the Yankees much. I still like the Rays and the Red Sox in the AL East. The Yankees are still an old team, and I have a feeling Sabathia will struggle at the Bronx. He is going to find out that he ain't in Cleveland anymore especially if he can't beat the Red Sox, who has hit well against him.
I suspect Sabathia will pitch well against Tampa Bay, which is not particularly good against left-handed pitching. A major question about Sabathia, besides his weight, is his ability to perform in the postseason. He did not pitch well for Cleveland in 2007. He did not pitch well for Milwaukee in 2008.