Mariano Rivera

Guide Note

Mariano Rivera is a pitcher for the New York Yankees. A native of Panama, the Yankees signed Rivera as an amateur free agent in 1990. Rivera made his major league debut in 1995, recording the only 10 starts of his career for the Yankees, and finishing with a record of 5-3. In 1996 the Yankees decided that Rivera's talents were best suited for the bullpen, and named him the primary setup man for closer John Wetteland. The Yankees would go on to win the World Series, largely due to Rivera's bullpen contributions. In 1997 Wetteland signed with the Texas Rangers, and Rivera became the Yankees Primary closer. Rivera's consistency as a closer was a key component of the Yankees run of three consecutive World Series championships in 1998, 1999, and 2000. Despite a blown save in Game 7 of the of the 2001 World Series, which harmed his once infallible legacy, Rivera is considered one of the game's all-time greatest closers.

Fast Facts

1. Hometown: Panama City, Panama
2. Had Tommy John Surgery in 1992
3. Four-time AL Rolaids Relief Man of the Year winner
4. Signed: 1990, NY Yankees
5. All-Star Appearances: 8
6. Awards: 1999 World Series MVP
7. 2003 ALCS MVP
8. 2006 ERA: 1.80
9. 2006 saves: 34

Rivera's cutter has often been described as "unhitable". He rarely surrenders home runs. Tough on lefties.[1]

Does not hold runners well. Does not have a change-up.[2]