Leadership qualities CC has always shown - the letters from his Mom, Amber & the kids had to bring tears to yur eyes - so beautifully written from the hearts of those who know him best. As fans we have witnessed for 11 seasons how he felt about teammates and had their backs; whether voicing displeasure on a pitch that came to close or retalitating when his catcher was hit - even when a $$$$$$ bonus was on the line. Mickey Mantle once said the compliment he most deseired was to be called a "Good Teammate" - CC has been that. His leadership and mentoring of younger pitchers makes him that special guy on the team. Though his dominance has been falling of, bad knees have prevented him from adequately fielding his position, it's the intangible concern, commitment to team that will be missed. He always included even the newest player called up or brought in on trade - along with Brett Gardner has been much done away those hazing rituals just making everyone feel part of the team.
We're learning now that CC plans to discuss a role with the New York Yankees in future years. Great idea by the brass to provide an all-expense family vacation to Japan - but not until after October
