UPDATE: Major League Baseball Hall of Famer CC Sabathia and his wife Amber Sabathia received the key to the city of Vallejo today, celebrating their contributions to the community with the newly declared CC Sabathia Day. The honor comes just months after Sabathia’s historic induction into the Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment for this beloved local icon.
Vallejo officials honored the couple during a heartfelt ceremony at Corbus Field, where the city also renamed a stretch of Gateway Drive to “CC Sabathia Way.” This tribute underscores the couple’s deep-rooted connection to Vallejo and their philanthropic efforts through the PitCCh-In Foundation, which supports local youth through initiatives like free backpack giveaways and baseball clinics.
During the ceremony, Sabathia reflected on his journey, crediting his inspiration to local heroes like Demetrius Davis, a former Vallejo athlete. “I think about him every single day. I think about the impact he had on the community,” Sabathia said, fighting back tears as he expressed gratitude to his hometown. His emotional speech resonated with attendees, capturing the spirit of Vallejo and its resilient community.
Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce praised the couple, stating, “When you hear ‘Native of Vallejo, California’ in the Hall of Fame announcement, that love and gratitude you show is felt here every day.” Local dignitaries, coaches, and friends joined in the celebration, sharing stories and accolades that highlighted Sabathia’s impact on and off the field.
The event featured a free baseball clinic for local kids, reinforcing Sabathia’s commitment to nurturing the next generation. “Something I grew up with was baseball camps in North Vallejo,” he said, emphasizing the importance of giving back to his community.
Sabathia, who retired after the 2019 season, ended his career with 251 wins and 3,093 strikeouts, leaving an indelible mark in MLB history. He won a Cy Young Award in 2007 and a World Series title with the New York Yankees in 2009. Yet, his legacy extends beyond the pitcher’s mound, as he actively supports local education and sports initiatives.
The outpouring of support from the Vallejo community was palpable, with many attendees expressing their admiration for the couple’s philanthropic efforts. “What they do for this community is unheard of,” said attendee Jomar Connors. The couple’s dedication to improving the lives of local youth has made a lasting impression on Vallejo residents.
As the event concluded, Sabathia expressed his love for Vallejo, stating, “I always go back to my house in the crest. My aunt usually cooks for me, but if not, I go to Tacos Jaliscos to get some tacos.” His connection to the city remains strong, and today’s honors reflect the deep respect and love that Vallejo holds for its hometown hero.
This celebration of CC Sabathia is not only a recognition of his athletic achievements but also a testament to the profound impact he and Amber have had on their community. The couple’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations in Vallejo.
Stay tuned for more updates on the impact of CC Sabathia’s contributions to Vallejo and the ongoing initiatives of the PitCCh-In Foundation.
