Yankees star CC Sabathia made an announcement on Monday (October 5), revealing that he was checking into alcohol rehab, which will lead to him missing the postseason. The famed athlete released a statement following his decision, which read, "Today I am checking myself into an alcohol rehabilitation center to receive the professional care and assistance needed to treat my disease."

Sabathia apologized for leaving his team during this time, but he made it clear that he needed to take care of his personal problem, "I love baseball and I love my teammates like brothers, and I am also fully aware that I am leaving at a time when we should all be coming together for one last push toward the World Series. It hurts me deeply to do this now, but I owe it to myself and to my family to get myself right. I want to take control of my disease, and I want to be a better man, father and player."

After CC received some negative responses from fans, former Yankees and Mets player Darryl Strawberry spoke out in support of Sabathia, telling the NY Daily News, "I don't even care about baseball, this is about his life. I know there is some reaction there that this is negative for the team, but who cares, this is his life. I am very proud of him for taking that first step. It's not easy."

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman also shared his support, "What CC is dealing with is a life issue. It's bigger than the game tomorrow. (Getting help) is the most important thing right now."

Source: NY Daily News/ESPN