The way things stand right now, the Yankees are going to need to rely on Domingo German to be a key part of their rotation in 2021.
German, 28, has not pitched since the 2019 season due to a domestic violence incident that led to a suspension and caused him to miss the 2019 playoffs and 2020 season.
At one point last season, German appeared ready to retire from baseball, but is now pitching in winter ball in the Dominican Republic as he seeks a second chance – one that some may be unsure he deserves.
CC Sabathia, who joined WFAN’s “Boomer & Gio” on Monday morning, was asked about his relationship with German and if he has spoken to the right-hander.
“I have actually had the chance to speak to him a lot,” Sabathia said. “We had gotten close over that year, 2019, I’ve spoken to him a lot in the last year or so, and last couple weeks as he started in winter ball. He had a tough time, went through everything publicly; I think he’s ready to admit he was wrong and show everybody that’s not the person he is.”
When asked how Sabathia knew German was ready for a second chance, the former Yankees ace said it was because he seemed genuine in the conversations about the remorse he was feeling.
“For me, right away, early when everything first happened. Just the remorsefulness back then was coming through,” Sabathia said. “I know he’s sorry, things happen, he’s a young guy and you make mistakes in your life. As long as he’s willing to admit he’s wrong, I think it’s up to us to give him another chance.”
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