HOUSTON - During the worst stretch of his career, CC Sabathia has been in consistent contact with former teammate Andy Pettitte, who keeps pushing the same message.
"That I'm not that far off has been the biggest thing," Sabathia said Thursday before the Yankees started a four-game series against the AL West-leading Astros.
Pettitte, 43, was in uniform in the clubhouse before Thursday night's game, still looking in condition to throw six strong innings. He said the most important thing Sabathia (3-7, 5.65) needs to do is maintain his confidence.
"He's been a great pitcher for so, so long, he just needs to go out there and take it one pitch at a time and continue to work," said Pettitte, who later threw batting practice to the first Yankees hitting group of the day.