CC Sabathia Silences Critics.

(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Many wondered which CC Sabathia would throw for the New York Yankees tonight. Would it be the Cy Young candidate Sabathia, who was tied for the League lead with 19 wins and a 3.37 ERA? Or would it be the Sabathia who has faltered during the postseason throughout his career?

After eight dominate innings, I'm pretty sure Sabathia answered that question.

Sabathia improved his 2009 postseason record to 2-0 as he completely mowed down the Los Angeles Angels on a miserable Friday night in New York.

Through eight stellar innings, Sabathia allowed one run, on four hits with seven strikeouts.

Coming into tonight's game, Sabathia had many critics on whether he would be able to perform under the pressures of the postseason, and rightfully so.

Last season, after being acquired from the Cleveland Indians, Sabathia all but led the Milwaukee Brewers down the stretch pitching on three-games rest the last month of the season. However, when it came down to crunch time, Sabathia allowed five earned runs in just 3.2 innings of work as the Brewers made an early exit from the NLDS.

After two solid starts, those critics should be silenced.

Not only did Sabathia's performance solidify his ability to pitch in October, it also gave the Yankee's bullpen much needed rest. With manager Joe Girardi's decision to go with a three-man rotation during the series, there is a strong chance they will be called upon often to help maintain the arms of A.J. Burnett and Andy Pettitte.

Weather permitting, Sabathia will most likely start Game 4 against Angels' mid-season pickup Scott Kazmir on Tuesday.

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