Mariano Rivera All-Time Saves Leader (652)

Lore & Background

Raised in the Panamanian fishing village of Puerto Caimito, Rivera was an amateur player until signed by the Yankees in 1990. He debuted in the majors in 1995 as a starting pitcher, then converted to relief late that year. After a breakthrough 1996 as a setup man, he became the Yankees' closer in 1997. He led the majors in saves in 1999, 2001, and 2004. Rivera primarily threw a sharp-moving, mid-90s mph cut fastball that frequently broke hitters' bats. His entrance song "Enter Sandman" signaled his presence. He was a key contributor to the Yankees' dynasty that won four championships in five years. He won the 1999 World Series MVP and the 2003 ALCS MVP, and set postseason records including lowest ERA (0.70) and most saves (42).

In Their Own Story

The air in Yankee Stadium was thick with humidity and anticipation as the bottom of the ninth arrived. The score was tied, runners on first and second, two outs. The batter stepped into the box, eyes locked on the mound where Mariano Rivera stood, his white pinstripes pristine despite the late August heat. There was no chatter from Rivera, only a rhythmic bounce of the ball in his glove. He looked toward the dugout, nodded once, and returned to the rubber. The wind-up was simple, almost deceptive in its lack of flourish. He fired. The ball left his hand with that familiar, terrifying spin. It crossed the plate, seemingly straight, before violently darting away from the batter's barrel. The crack of the bat was hollow, a weak pop-up that drifted lazily toward shortstop. As the fielder caught it for the final out, the stadium erupted into a roar that shook the foundations. Rivera didn't celebrate wildly; he simply jogged in, tapping his cap to the crowd, knowing he had done what he always did: he had closed the door.

Reader's Guide

Rivera is considered one of the most dominant relievers in history. He saved at least 25 games in 15 consecutive seasons and posted an ERA under 2.00 in 11 seasons, both records. His career 2.21 ERA and 1.00 WHIP were the lowest in the live-ball era among qualified pitchers. He is credited with popularizing the cut fastball. Known for precise control, smooth motion, and composure. In 2013, the Yankees retired his number 42; he was the last MLB player to wear it full time. In 2014, MLB named its AL Reliever of the Year Award in his honor. A devout Christian, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in September 2019.

Did You Know?

• Rivera is MLB's all-time leader in saves (652) and games finished (952).
• He set postseason records with a 0.70 ERA and 42 saves.
• He was the first and only player elected unanimously to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the BBWAA.
• Rivera's signature pitch was a cut fastball that often broke hitters' bats.