NEW YORK _ CC Sabathia entered what might have been his final game as a Yankee, Game 4 of the ALDS against the Red Sox on Tuesday, the same way he enters any other: expecting to finish it.
"That's just how I am," Sabathia said the day prior.
It didn't happen, not even close, and even though he managed to finish three innings, that might have been too long. As Sabathia struggled in allowing three runs _ all in his final inning _ that manager Aaron Boone let him toil.
The Red Sox's first two runners reached, Andrew Benintendi when he was hit by a pitch and Steve Pearce on a single to center. J.D. Martinez's sacrifice fly to center drove in Benintendi. Steve Pearce advanced to third on Sabathia's wild pitch with two outs, and back-to-back hits from Ian Kinsler and Eduardo Nunez made it a three-run game.
Sabathia allowed five hits and two walks, striking out one and stranding five runners. He threw 59 pitches. In the top of the fourth, Sabathia exited in favor of Zach Britton as the parade of Yankees relievers began.
Tuesday was the first time in eight home playoff games as a Yankee that Sabathia allowed more than two runs. It was also his 18th postseason start with the club, tying him with Roger Clemens for third in franchise history. Only Andy Pettitte (40) and Whitey Ford (22) had more.
As for the future, well, Sabathia was clear Monday that he wants to play in 2019. Whether it's with the Yankees is another question. Sabathia, 38, is due to be a free agent. He was in the same position last offseason, but in December signed a one-year, $10-million deal to stay in the Bronx.
"I'll play anywhere," Sabathia said. "I still want to play. I still want to pitch. I definitely can help and still get guys out. So whoever needs me."
