UPDATE: CC Sabathia, the beloved Vallejo native and newly inducted Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, was honored with the key to the city during a heartfelt ceremony on July 23, 2023. Alongside his wife, Amber Sabathia, he received a series of proclamations acknowledging their significant contributions to the Vallejo community over the past two decades.
With rain holding off just long enough for the event, locals gathered to celebrate the couple at Corbus Field, where “CC Sabathia Day” was declared. The city also renamed Gateway Drive to “CC Sabathia Way”, cementing the former pitcher’s legacy in his hometown.
Sabathia, who was the first Vallejo athlete to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, expressed deep gratitude, attributing his success to local heroes like Demetrius Davis, a former athlete who inspired him during his youth. “I think about him every single day. I think about the impact he had on the community,” Sabathia said, visibly emotional as he recounted his memories.
Vallejo Mayor Andrea Sorce praised Sabathia, stating, “It’s the story of CC Sabathia. It’s that heart and that grit and that unbelievable pride.” The mayor emphasized the immense pride the city feels for Sabathia, especially when he represents Vallejo on national stages.
The ceremony was attended by a host of former coaches, friends, and dignitaries who shared personal anecdotes about CC’s impact on the community. Josh Ramos, Vallejo High Athletic Director, remarked, “Ever since CC first stepped on the campus…his impact here has been never-ending.”
As part of the celebration, Sabathia was also involved in a free baseball clinic for local children, reinforcing his commitment to youth in Vallejo. “Something I grew up with was baseball camps in North Vallejo,” CC shared earlier in the day. “It was great to be able to do that today.”
The event featured resolutions and presentations from local officials, including California Assemblymember Lori Wilson and Solano County Supervisor Cassandra James, acknowledging the Sabathias’ philanthropic work through the PitCCh-In Foundation, which provides school supplies and backpacks to local students.
The festivities included a painting of Sabathia presented by the Vallejo High Alumni Association and gifts from local businesses, including an invitation to throw out a pitch at an upcoming Vallejo Seaweed game.
As the day concluded, CC reflected on his deep ties to Vallejo, sharing, “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.”
With a career that boasts 251 wins and over 3,000 strikeouts, CC Sabathia’s legacy is firmly rooted in Vallejo. Today’s honor is a testament to his enduring impact both on and off the field, making it clear that he is not just a sports icon but a cherished community figure.
Stay tuned for more updates as the community continues to celebrate its hometown hero.
