New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia announced that he has checked into alcohol rehabilitation and will miss postseason play, the club announced Monday.  The Yankees are hosting the Houston Astros Tuesday in the wild-card game. The 35-year-old was not expected to pitch against Houston, but possibly would be in the rotation if New York advances.

 Fans have rallied for the starter on Twitter. Fan Evan Longoria wrote: “I’m happy that @CC_Sabathia decided to do what’s best for him and his family. We are all supportive of your decision brother!”

“I love baseball and I love my teammates like brothers, and I am also fully aware that I am leaving at a time when we should all be coming together for one last push toward the World Series,” Sabathia said in a statement.

The AL CY Young Award-winner  started his career with the Cleveland Indians in 2001 until traded in 2008 to the Milwaukee Brewers. The Yankees signed Sabathia to a seven-year contract in 2009.

In 29 games, Sabathia finished the season with a 4.75 ERA and an 8-10 record.