Just a short while ago, it was announced that CC Sabathia would not opt out of his current contract with the New York Yankees. That was a bit of a surprise, because there were good reasons for Sabathia to exercise his right. But now we know he didn't opt out because he and the Yankees agreed to a one-year contract extension. Buster Olney:
Sabathia's contract extension - 1-year, $25 m. for 2016, and a $5 million buyout. Total guaranteed, five years, $122 m.. $25m option '17
Here's the easy breakdown.
- 2012-2015: $23 million per year, as per Sabathia's original contract
- 2016: $25 million
- $5 million buyout, OR:
- 2017: $25 million (vesting option)
Coming into the day, Sabathia was under contract for the next four years. Now he's under contract for the next five years, and possibly six if he remains effective. That's the big question, of course. In July 2016, Sabathia will turn 36 years old, and he's already put a lot of miles on his arm and his knees. But so far in his career, Sabathia's been one of the most durable pitchers in baseball, and the Yankees are banking on that keeping up.
This is a neat and tidy end to what had the potential to be a huge story. CC Sabathia, opting out and becoming a free agent? Holy smokes! Nope. Not happening. CC Sabathia's a New York Yankee, and he'll remain a New York Yankee for at least the next half-decade.