Photo: Schwane / Cle Guardians
Cleveland, OH – The Cleveland Guardians today announced CC Sabathia (2001-2008) will be the 48th member inducted into the Cleveland Guardians Hall of Fame.
“We are so very excited to honor CC Sabathia as the newest member of the Guardians Hall of Fame,” said Guardians Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Bob DiBiasio. “Following his selection as our number one draft pick in the 1998 June Draft, CC burst onto the Cleveland baseball scene in grand fashion. His rookie season of 2001, at age 20, saw him win 17 games. A commanding presence on the mound, CC also had a commanding spirit for his teammates and those in need of a helping hand off the field. The PitCCh In Foundation, created by Sabathia and his wife, Amber, aims to enrich the lives of youth through educational and athletic activities and will be the lasting legacy of a big man with an even bigger heart.”
Cleveland’s first round pick and 20th overall selection in the 1998 MLB Draft, Sabathia made his MLB debut in 2001. During his rookie campaign, Sabathia recorded 171 strikeouts, the second most all-time by a Cleveland rookie, and was voted AL Rookie of the Year runner-up. CC was a member of two AL Central Champion clubs (2001, 2007) during his time in Cleveland.
In 2007, Sabathia became Cleveland’s second Cy Young winner, compiling a 19-7 record in 34 starts. He led MLB with 241.0 innings pitched. During his Cleveland career, Sabathia etched his name in the franchise record books. In Cleveland’s history, he ranks 7th in strikeouts (1,265), 13th in wins (106) and 15th in Innings Pitched (1,528.2). For seven seasons, Sabathia recorded 11+ wins, tying him with Sam McDowell for the most by a Cleveland left hander. He was a three-time All-Star with Cleveland and one of 10 pitchers in Cleveland history with three or more All-Star selections.
The Guardians will honor Sabathia on Saturday August 3rd with a pregame HOF Induction Ceremony and a CC Sabathia Bobblehead courtesy of Discount Drug Mart (15,000 fans). The Guardians HOF, established in 1951 as the first team hall of fame in baseball, will celebrate its 19th induction class this season.