Who is the best shortstop of all-time? Who is the best outfielder of all-time? Who is the best catcher of all-time? Those could all be debated and there are plenty of worthy choices. But, who is the best closer of all-time? That’s an easy one; it’s Mariano Rivera.
Rivera made his major league debut in 1995, but really became Rivera in 1997 when he became the Yankees’ closer. Rivera played a big role coming out of the bullpen in 1996 as a setup man when the Yankees won the World Series. He also helped the Yankees win three straight World Series from 1998-2000; and then once again in 2009. Mariano Rivera is the all-time saves leader in baseball with 638 saves (as of July 17, 2013).
Last season, on a muggy day in Kansas City, Rivera was fielding fly balls during batting practice and went down with a season ending injury. It was heartbreaking for Rivera, the Yankees, and their fans. But Mariano Rivera worked hard and rehabilitated. He returned to the Yankees for the start of this season; which he announced would be his last.
It will be a sad day when Mariano Rivera does officially retire at seasons end. As a Yankees’ fan, I have been spoiled for more than a decade thanks to Rivera. While other teams saw closer after closer falter, the Yankees never had any doubts or concerns. There is nothing better than being at Yankee Stadium, bottom of the 9th, to hear “Enter Sandman”, see those bullpen doors swing open and look Mariano Rivera come into the game. It sends chills all throughout your body.
Rivera pretty much has made a career off of one pitch; a devastating cutter. Rivera is unflappable, goes about his business the same all the time, has great poise. Rivera is impossible to replace, I’d hate to be the guy to become the Yankees next closer. I doubt there will ever be a closer as dominant as Rivera, for as long as he’s done it. He’s won five World Series, one World Series MVP, and he’s a thirteen time All-Star.
Rivera is having a great season, keep in mind he is 43 years old. There is no doubt that Rivera could pitch beyond this season, but he has said it himself; he wants to go out knowing that he could still play. Mariano has stood the test of time, shattered many dreams, shattered many bats, set records, won it all. Rivera will be a first ballot Hall of Famer; fitting for the greatest closer of all-time.
Thank you Mariano Rivera for all the years and memories.