Former Yankees Pitcher CC Sabathia Named Special Assistant to Rob Manfred

CC Sabathia was one of the best pitchers of his generation, but he will help the game of baseball in a different way this season.

The commissioner of baseball has a special assistant to him.

An advocate for amplifying diversity, CC will bring a player's perspective as a liaison for decision making, according to the announcement.

MLB @MLB

After a 19-year career, @CC_Sabathia is the newest Special Assistant to the Commissioner. An advocate for amplifying diversity, strengthening the sport, and impacting the community, CC will bring a player's perspective as a liaison for decision making. Welcome, CC! #LegaCCy pic.twitter.com/M0QCMJhY1h

The Cleveland Indians, Milwaukee Brewers, and New York Yankees all had players with a resume that included a World Series title, an American League Cy Young, and six All-Star appearances.

He had a 251-161 record with a 3.74 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 3,093 strikeouts. The southpaw is one of 19 pitchers in history to reach 3,000 strikeouts.

The relationship between the players and the owners of the league was under scrutiny this winter, and that's why it's notable that the player will take his experience as a player into a role with the league.

The opening day was pushed back by a week because of the labor dispute. It was the second-longest work stoppage in MLB history and focused on a number of topics, including the competitive balance tax threshold, the international draft, minimum salaries and the pre-arbitration bonus pool.

At times, the season could be delayed well into the spring or even the summer, but the sides eventually reached an agreement.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Manfred tried to improve his relationship with the players by meeting with some from each team before the start of the regular season.

It could be that having someone who enters his new role with a player's perspective can help improve the relationship.