For CC Sabathia, this week was the night before Christmas ... He then began giggling as his house exploded with cheers. The big lefthander turned to his wife Amber, smiled and gave her a kiss.

While CC Sabathia has had a storied career in the big leagues, it was not all sunshine and rainbows. He did not struggle on the mound, but he did have some demons he was battling off the field.

Michael LoRé is a soccer and golf journalist based in New York City. CC Sabathia signs autographs for Make-a-Wish guests during the Gatorade All-Star Workout Day at ... [+] T-Mobile Park.