"It was getting close. But CC Sabathia and the Yankees were able to get his new deal done last night to avoid the ace opting out of his previous deal.

Sabathia tweeted the announcement of his new contract at 7:23 p.m., four hours and 36 minutes before he could have opted out of his contract and become a free agent. The Yankees gave him an extension for $30 million guaranteed, with the increase potentially cresting to $50 million if an option is exercised.

Sabathia had four years and $92 million left on his deal through 2015 -- $23 million annually. Now in 2016, he will receive $25 million. And in 2017, he has a vesting club option for $25 million with a $5 million buyout. Thus, Sabathia is now assured five years and $122 million, with the possibility of $142 million over six years."