Sabathia’s last season toeing the rubber

TAMPA, FLA. » CC Sabathia can envision the perfect ending to his final big league season.

“Right now I’m just focused on trying to win the championship and have a parade at the end of the year,” Sabathia said Saturday. “That would be a great way to top this thing off.”

The 38-year-old Sabathia agreed in early November to an $8 million, one-year contract and said 2019 will be his last season.

Sabathia had a stent inserted after a blockage was found in an artery from his heart in December.

He has had chronic right knee problem that has required several operations.

“Why now? It’s time,” Sabathia said with a laugh. “My knee, just the shape that it’s in. My family is getting older. It’s time for me to be with them and be around them.”

When asked about his dad being home more, son Carter replied, “I know it will be two times funnier in the house because you’re funny and mom’s funny.”

Pitchers and catchers at Yankees spring training camp, and some position players taking part in early workouts were in attendance at Steinbrenner Field for Sabathia’s remarks.

“All I ever wanted for people to remember me as was just a good teammate,” Sabathia said. “It’s been a great ride. Just so many countless different memories that I’ll have. It’s priceless, it’s been great.”

Managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner and vice chairperson Jennifer Steinbrenner Swindal, who hugged Sabathia and took a photo of him and his family, were also present.

“He’s special,” Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. “He’s a fan favorite. He’s a (Steinbrenner) family favorite.

LYNNE SLADKY — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Yankees starting pitcher CC Sabathia, left, listens as his son Carter responds to a question during a news conference at the Yankees spring training baseball