New York Yankees pitcher, Mariano Rivera, made his 600th career save last night against the Seattle Mariners.
September 14, 2011- Last night 41-year old reliever Mariano Rivera came on late in the game to help the New York Yankees win another important victory. Rivera has been doing this for years and last night he recorded his 600th career save, all with the New York Yankees and he did it this time on the strength of his catcher’s arm not his own.
Yankee’s catcher Russell Martin was able to throw out Ichiro Suzuki who was attempting to steal second base to end the game. With his 600th save, Rivera becomes only the second reliever in Major League baseball history to reach the plateau.
The save puts him only one behind the great Trevor Hoffman and Wednesday night Rivera may get his first chance of tying Hoffman as the Yankees end a series with the Seattle Mariners.
Rivera’s manager Joe Girardi said that he did not think anyone would ever reach the number of saves Hoffman and Rivera have. It is a testament to each of their longevity and talent.
When Rivera reaches 602 to pass Hoffman it will be the second milestone reached by a Yankee this season as Derek Jeter reached the 3,000 hit plateau earlier in the year. Rivera was quick to say that personal accomplishments are great but baseball is a team game.
“There is another game tomorrow that needs to be won,” he said. His concern at this time is winning the tight pennant race they are currently in with the Boston Red Sox.
