Sabathia to Opt Out of Contract, Become a Free Agent

New York Yankees starting pitcher C.C. Sabathia will opt out of his contract and become a free agent, according to Sports Illustrated's Jon Heyman. Sabathia had signed a 7-year deal prior to the 2009 season worth $161 million.

Though the Yankees are believed to be the leaders for Sabathia, other teams will likely become involved if he opts out by the Monday deadline. New York has reportedly offered Sabathia a new contract, though details were not disclosed. The lefty's current contract is worth $92 million over the next four years.