Challenges in the Life of Mariano Rivera in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Mariano Rivera's life and career.

Mariano Rivera, a Panamanian-American former professional baseball pitcher, played 19 seasons for the New York Yankees (1995-2013). Known as "Mo" and "Sandman", he was the Yankees' closer for 17 seasons and is MLB's career leader in saves (652) and games finished (952). A 13-time All-Star and 5-time World Series champion, Rivera received five AL Rolaids Relief Man Awards and three Delivery Man of the Year Awards. In 2019, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, being the only player ever unanimously elected by the BBWAA.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1988: Uncle's Death

In 1988, Mariano Rivera's uncle Miguel died from injuries sustained on his father's commercial boat.

August 27, 1992: Elbow Surgery

On August 27, 1992, Mariano Rivera underwent elbow surgery to repair damage to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow.

1993: Abbreviated Season

Mariano Rivera pitched an abbreviated 1993 season for the Rookie-level Yankees and Class A Greensboro, kept on a limited pitch count during his recuperation.

1998: Managers send right-handed batters to pinch hit

In the 1998 World Series, managers like Bruce Bochy sent right-handed batters to pinch hit for left-handers against Rivera, thinking that the cutter would be more difficult for lefties to hit.

1999: Chipper Jones witnesses Klesko break bats

During the 1999 World Series, Chipper Jones witnessed his teammate Ryan Klesko break three bats in a single plate appearance against Mariano Rivera.

1999: World Series Appearance

In the 1999 World Series, Chipper Jones witnessed his teammate Ryan Klesko break three bats in a single plate appearance against Mariano Rivera. This event highlights the effectiveness of Rivera's cutter pitch.

2001: Rivera Reflects on Game 7 Loss in 2001 World Series

After his failure in Game 7 of the 2001 World Series, Rivera found comfort in the fact that it saved teammate Enrique Wilson from being on American Airlines Flight 587, which crashed.

2001: New Contract and Record-Breaking Season

In 2001, Mariano Rivera signed a four-year contract with the Yankees and was selected for the All-Star team for the third consecutive year. Rivera led MLB with 50 saves, breaking the Yankees' single-season record. Despite his regular season success, Rivera failed to close out Game 7 of the 2001 World Series, blowing the save and losing the series for the Yankees.

2005: Struggles and Recovery

In 2005, Mariano Rivera started the season poorly, facing booing from Yankee Stadium fans after blown save opportunities. However, he rebounded, achieving a 23 consecutive scoreless innings streak, getting selected for the All-Star team, and setting new career bests.

2007: Contract Negotiations and Performance

In 2007, contract extension negotiations with the Yankees stalled, and Rivera struggled early in the season. Despite improvement, he finished with career worsts in several categories. He also passed John Franco for third place on the all-time saves list.