New York Yankees ace CC Sabathia continued his rehab with a bullpen session on Saturday, and the big lefty is adamant that he'll return next week. According to Jack Curry of YES, Sabathia stated in no uncertain terms that he will pitch when the Yankees play in Cleveland against his former team:

Sabathia threw bp session today to test elbow. Will throw another on Tues. Was emphatic in saying, "I'm pitching on Friday."

— Jack Curry (@JackCurryYES) August 18, 2012

Sabathia is rehabbing from tightness in his left elbow, a problem he said did not require a trip to the disabled list. But the team felt otherwise, opting to put him on the shelf as a precautionary measure. An MRI did not reveal structural damage to the elbow, but with the Yankees firmly entrenched atop the AL East standings, they have been extra cautious with their ace.

Sabathia has not experienced any setbacks during his rehab, and if things go smoothly during his next bullpen session on Tuesday, he could be on the mound Friday against the Tribe.

For more on the Yankees, check out SB Nation blog Pinstripe Alley.