September 20, 2011

Rivera Breaks All-Time Saves Record

By - Kris Fletcher

Yesterday afternoon, New York Yankees star closer Mariano Rivera broke the MLB record for career saves, picking up #602 against the Minnesota Twins.

Photo by: John Angelillo
Protecting a 6-4 lead, Rivera got Trevor Plouffe to ground out leading off the 9th. Michael Cuddyer followed with a fly out to right. Chris Parmelee then struck out looking to end the game.

Rivera showed little emotion, although he did crack a smile as teammates crowded around him for hugs and congratulations. They then urged him to remain on the mound by himself, which he did, tipping his cap and shrugging while the crowd gave him a much deserved standing ovation.

The previous mark of 601 saves was held by long-time San Diego Padres closer Trevor Hoffman, who retired following last season as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers.

2 comments:

  1. ScottySeptember 20, 2011 at 11:27 AM

    Rivera has been a money closer and class act his whole career. He deserves the record. Nice to see him get it.

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  2. AnonymousSeptember 20, 2011 at 3:20 PM

    My biggest Mariano memory is actually of a game he failed to save, Game 7 of the 2001 World Series. That series meant so much to the country because it was only a month after 9/11. I just wish he could have slammed the door in that game. Would have helped the nation heal even more. The city of New York needed it so bad. Was still a fantastic World Series overall though.

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