History of Mariano Rivera in Timeline
Mariano Rivera, nicknamed "Mo" and "Sandman," is a Panamanian-American former professional baseball pitcher renowned for his 19-season career with the New York Yankees (1995-2013). Primarily a relief pitcher, he served as the Yankees' closer for 17 seasons. His accolades include thirteen All-Star selections, five World Series championships, and MLB's career records for saves (652) and games finished (952). Rivera also garnered five AL Rolaids Relief Man Awards, three Delivery Man of the Year Awards, and four top-three finishes in AL Cy Young Award voting. In 2019, he achieved unanimous election to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the BBWAA, a historic first.
1920: Rivera's Career Statistics in the Live-Ball Era
Since the live-ball era began in 1920, at the time of his retirement, Mariano Rivera's career ERA (2.21) and WHIP (1.00) were the lowest of any MLB pitcher, setting him apart as one of the most effective pitchers in preventing runs and baserunners.
November 29, 1969: Birth of Mariano Rivera
Mariano Rivera was born on November 29, 1969.
1978: Yankees' Previous World Series Win
The Yankees' previous World Series win before 1996 took place in 1978. This marks the length of time between championships for the franchise.
1986: Dave Righetti's Saves Record
In 1986, Dave Righetti set the Yankees' single-season saves record, which Mariano Rivera would later break in 2001.
1988: Amateur Baseball Career
Mariano Rivera started playing baseball, viewing it more as a hobby, around the age of 18 and joined the Panamá Oeste Vaqueros, a local amateur baseball team, in 1988.
1988: Tragedy and Career Change
Mariano Rivera's uncle Miguel died from injuries sustained in an accident on his father's fishing boat in 1988.
February 17, 1990: Signed by the Yankees
Mariano Rivera signed a contract with the New York Yankees organization on February 17, 1990.
1990: Strong Minor League Season
Mariano Rivera had a successful season with the Gulf Coast League Yankees in 1990, posting a 0.17 ERA and throwing a seven-inning no-hitter.
1990: Signed by the Yankees
Mariano Rivera was signed by the New York Yankees organization in 1990.
November 9, 1991: Rivera Marries Clara
Mariano Rivera married his childhood sweetheart, Clara, on November 9, 1991.
1991: Mariano Rivera's 1991 Season
In 1991, Mariano Rivera played for the Greensboro Hornets, achieving a 4-9 record and a 2.75 ERA. His performance, which included 123 strikeouts and 36 walks, caught the attention of Yankees manager Buck Showalter.
1991: Rivera Begins Learning English
Mariano Rivera began learning English in 1991 while playing for the Greensboro Hornets, recognizing the importance of communication with his teammates.
August 27, 1992: Mariano Rivera's Elbow Surgery
On August 27, 1992, Mariano Rivera underwent surgery on his right elbow to repair a damaged UCL, an injury sustained while attempting to improve his slider. This was not Tommy John surgery, and the Yankees left Rivera unprotected during the expansion draft, narrowly avoiding losing him to the Florida Marlins.
1993: Mariano Rivera's Recovery and 1993 Season
During his 1993 recovery, Mariano Rivera played catch with former Yankees pitchers and faced batting practice. He pitched a shortened season for the Rookie-level Yankees and Class A Greensboro with a limited pitch count. Despite a 2.08 ERA, doubts were raised about his future prospects.
1993: Mariano Rivera's 1993 Minor League Season
In 1993, after recovering from elbow surgery, Mariano Rivera played a shortened season in the minor leagues, appearing for the Rookie-level Yankees and Class A Greensboro. He pitched in 12 games, maintaining a 2.08 ERA and striking out a significant number of batters while on a limited pitch count.
1994: Mariano Rivera's 1994 Minor League Season
Mariano Rivera progressed through multiple minor league levels in 1994, starting with the Tampa Yankees (Class A-Advanced), then moving to the Albany-Colonie Yankees (Double-A) and finally the Columbus Clippers (Triple-A). Despite a strong overall record, he faced challenges in Columbus with a higher ERA.
May 16, 1995: Mariano Rivera's Major League Debut
On May 16, 1995, Mariano Rivera was called up to the major leagues. He made his debut on May 23rd, starting against the California Angels, but struggled initially, leading to a brief demotion back to the minors. After a significant improvement in velocity, attributed to divine intervention by Rivera, he returned to the majors and eventually transitioned to the bullpen, where his career would flourish.
1995: Rivera's Pitching Efficiency
In 1995, Mariano Rivera's pitches per inning were at 18.7, a number that improved due to his increased efficiency after adopting the cutter.
1995: MLB Debut and Transition to Relief Pitcher
Mariano Rivera debuted in the major leagues as a starting pitcher in 1995 but transitioned to a relief pitcher later that year.
1995: MLB Debut
Mariano Rivera made his Major League Baseball debut with the New York Yankees in 1995.
1995: Mariano Rivera's 1995 Minor League and Major League Debut
Starting the 1995 season with the Columbus Clippers, Rivera quickly showcased his talent, boasting a 1.50 ERA. This strong performance paved the way for his major league debut with the New York Yankees.
April 1996: Tom Kelly's Comment on Mariano Rivera
In April 1996, Minnesota Twins manager Tom Kelly commented on Mariano Rivera after his team faced him, suggesting Rivera's abilities were already evident early in his career.
1996: Mariano Rivera's breakout season
In 1996, Mariano Rivera had a breakout season as a setup pitcher for the New York Yankees. He pitched 26 consecutive scoreless innings and recorded his first career save. He finished the season with a 2.09 ERA and 130 strikeouts, a Yankees single-season record for relievers. He played a key role in the Yankees' World Series win, their first since 1978.
1996: Rivera's Strikeout Rate
In 1996, Mariano Rivera's strikeouts per 9 innings pitched was a high 10.87, reflecting his early career as a power pitcher before the advent of the cutter.
1996: Breakthrough Season
Mariano Rivera had a breakthrough season as a setup man in 1996.
1996: Longest Outing Since 1996
Mariano Rivera's three-inning performance in Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS was his longest outing since 1996.
April 1997: Rivera becomes Yankees' closer
In April 1997, Mariano Rivera transitioned to the closer role for the New York Yankees. Initially, he struggled with the new role, blowing three of his first six save opportunities. However, with support from manager Joe Torre, he settled in and earned his first All-Star selection. In the All-Star game, he pitched a perfect ninth inning to earn his first All-Star Game save. He also developed his signature cutter during this season.
June 1997: Discovery of the Cutter
In June 1997, during a warm-up session with Ramiro Mendoza, Mariano Rivera accidentally discovered his signature cutter, a pitch that would transform his career and become a dominant force in baseball.
1997: Yankees Closer
Mariano Rivera became the Yankees' closer in 1997.
1997: Mariano Rivera's 1997 Season (Referenced)
The provided text references Rivera's 1997 season, noting that his 30 saves in 2007 were his second-lowest total since 1997. This implies he had fewer than 30 saves in the 1997 season.
1997: League-wide Retirement of Number 42
Jackie Robinson's number 42 was retired league-wide in 1997.
July 1998: Mariano Rivera Foundation Established
The Mariano Rivera Foundation, dedicated to helping underprivileged children through education, was established in July 1998.
1998: Incorporating the Cutter
By 1998, Mariano Rivera fully incorporated the cutter into his pitching repertoire, leading to a shift in his pitching style from a power pitcher to one who induced more batted balls.
1998: Unconventional Hitting Approaches against Rivera
During the 1998 World Series, Bruce Bochy employed unconventional tactics against Mariano Rivera, sending right-handed pinch hitters to face him, believing they would have an advantage against the cutter, demonstrating the unique challenges Rivera posed to opposing teams.
1998: Rivera establishes himself as a top closer
During the 1998 season, Mariano Rivera solidified his status as one of baseball's best closers. He perfected his signature cutter, known for its ability to break bats. He recorded 36 saves and a 1.91 ERA in the regular season. In the postseason, he pitched 13 1/3 scoreless innings and saved six games, including three in the World Series against the San Diego Padres, helping the Yankees to a record-setting 125 combined wins in the regular season and postseason. He also set the record for the lowest postseason career ERA.
1999: Rivera's Pitching Accuracy
In 1999, Darrin Fletcher described how Mariano Rivera's smooth delivery provided a "false sense of security" before the ball "exploded" on hitters, highlighting Rivera's deceptive pitching motion and accuracy.
1999: Rivera's dominance and World Series MVP
In 1999, Mariano Rivera achieved several milestones. He got his signature entrance music, "Enter Sandman." He also led the league in saves for the first time, with 45. He won the World Series MVP award for his performance against the Atlanta Braves, including a win and two saves. He finished the year with a remarkable 43 consecutive scoreless innings pitched in the regular season and postseason combined.
1999: Pedro MartÃnez's All-Star Game MVP
In 1999, Pedro MartÃnez was named the All-Star Game MVP.
1999: World Series MVP and Saves Leader
Mariano Rivera led the major leagues in saves and won the World Series Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award in 1999.
1999: Rivera's Cutter in the 1999 World Series
During the 1999 World Series, Ryan Klesko broke three bats in one plate appearance against Mariano Rivera, showcasing the devastating effect of his cutter, which Chipper Jones called a "buzz saw".
2000: Derek Jeter's All-Star Game MVP
Derek Jeter was named the All-Star Game MVP in 2000.
2000: Record-breaking postseason performance
In 2000, Mariano Rivera continued his postseason dominance. He broke Dennis Eckersley's record for most postseason saves and Whitey Ford's record for most consecutive scoreless innings pitched in the postseason. He saved six games in the postseason and clinched the World Series for the Yankees against the Mets, his fourth championship and seventh World Series save, also a new record.
2000: Rivera Family Moves to New York
In 2000, the Rivera family relocated from Panama to Westchester County, New York.
2001: Rivera's Faith and the 2001 World Series
Mariano Rivera's strong Christian faith helped him cope with the Yankees' loss in the 2001 World Series, particularly after learning that the loss may have inadvertently saved his teammate Enrique Wilson's life by preventing him from being on the ill-fated American Airlines Flight 587.
2001: 2001 Season and World Series Loss
In 2001, Mariano Rivera signed his first long-term contract, a four-year, $39.99 million deal. He was selected for his third consecutive All-Star game, led the league with 50 saves, breaking the Yankees' single-season record, won his second AL Rolaids Relief Man Award, and finished eleventh in AL MVP voting. However, he also suffered his first and only postseason loss in Game 7 of the World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, snapping his 23-game postseason save streak.
2001: Saves Leader
Mariano Rivera led the major leagues in saves in 2001.
2001: Rivera's Cutter Dominance
In 2001, Mariano Rivera's cutter was so effective that he broke 44 bats during the regular season, highlighting the pitch's sharp movement and the weak contact it induced from hitters.
May 9, 2002: Yankees Franchise Saves Leader
On May 9, 2002, Mariano Rivera surpassed Dave Righetti to become the Yankees' all-time saves leader. Despite this achievement, injuries plagued Rivera throughout the rest of the season, limiting his playing time.
2003: ALCS MVP and World Series Appearance
In 2003, despite missing the first month due to injury, Rivera achieved a career-best 1.66 ERA and secured 40 saves. He was instrumental in the Yankees' ALCS victory against the Boston Red Sox, pitching three scoreless innings in the decisive Game 7 and earning the ALCS MVP award. Although the Yankees went on to lose the World Series to the Florida Marlins, Rivera had a strong postseason performance overall.
2003: AL Championship Series MVP
Mariano Rivera won the American League Championship Series MVP Award in 2003.
March 2004: Contract Extension
In March 2004, Mariano Rivera signed a two-year contract extension with the Yankees worth $21 million, including an option for a third year.
2004: Rivera's Cutter: The Best in Baseball
In 2004, ESPN.com ranked Mariano Rivera's cut fastball as the best "out pitch" in baseball, solidifying its reputation as one of the most dominant pitches in the game.
2004: Career High in Appearances
Mariano Rivera had a career-high number of appearances in 2004, leading him to forgo his usual offseason throwing regimen.
2004: Saves Leader
Mariano Rivera led the major leagues in saves in 2004.
2005: Awards and Recognition
In 2005, Mariano Rivera achieved a career-best 1.38 ERA and won his fourth AL Rolaids Relief Man Award and the inaugural Delivery Man of the Year Award. He also placed second in AL Cy Young voting and ninth in AL MVP voting, his highest finishes for both. Furthermore, he was named the relief pitcher on the inaugural MLB Latino Legends Team.
2005: Early Season Struggles and Rebound
Mariano Rivera started the 2005 season by blowing his first two save opportunities against the Red Sox, extending his blown save streak against them to four. This led to fan criticism and speculation about his future. However, he recovered strongly with a 23-inning scoreless streak and a career-best 31 consecutive converted saves.
2006: Mariano Rivera's 2006 Season
In 2006, Mariano Rivera started slow but improved significantly. On June 6, 2006, he achieved his 391st career save, surpassing Dennis Eckersley for fourth-most in MLB history. He was selected for his third consecutive All-Star team, earned his third All-Star save (tying Eckersley's record), and on July 16, 2006, became the fourth MLB pitcher with 400 saves. Despite a late-season elbow strain, he finished with 34 saves, a 1.80 ERA, and his second consecutive Delivery Man of the Year Award.
2006: Opening of Clubhouse Grill
Mariano Rivera co-owned "Clubhouse Grill" (originally "Mo's New York Grill") which opened in New Rochelle in 2006.
2006: Riveras Purchase Rye Home
The Riveras purchased a large home in Rye, New York, in 2006.
2007: Mariano Rivera's 2007 Season
Mariano Rivera's 2007 season began with contract negotiations and on-field struggles. He blew his first two save opportunities in April 2007. He rebounded with 30 saves and a 2.26 ERA for the rest of the season, passing John Franco for third place on the all-time saves list on July 14, 2007 with his 425th save. However, the season included career worsts in ERA (3.15) and other statistics. Following the Yankees' playoff elimination, Rivera signed a three-year, $45 million contract, the largest for a reliever in baseball history at that time.
2007: Mariano Rivera's 2007 Season
Mariano Rivera's 2007 season began with contract negotiations and on-field struggles. He blew his first two save opportunities in April 2007. He rebounded with 30 saves and a 2.26 ERA for the rest of the season, passing John Franco for third place on the all-time saves list on July 14, 2007 with his 425th save. However, the season included career worsts in ERA (3.15) and other statistics. Following the Yankees' playoff elimination, Rivera signed a three-year, $45 million contract, the largest for a reliever in baseball history at that time.
2008: Mariano Rivera's 2008 Season Performance Summary
Mariano Rivera's 2008 season was statistically outstanding. He achieved a 1.40 ERA, 39 saves in 40 opportunities, and career bests in WHIP (0.67), OPS-against (.422), batting average against (.165), save percentage (97.5%), walks (6), earned runs (11), and blown saves (1). His impressive 12.83 strikeout-to-walk ratio made him the second MLB pitcher to achieve such a high figure in a season (minimum 50 innings pitched), leading to a fifth-place finish in the AL Cy Young Award voting.
2008: Halladay Seeks Rivera's Cutter Guidance
During the 2008 All-Star break, Roy Halladay sought advice from Mariano Rivera on how to improve his own cutter, highlighting the respect and influence Rivera had on his peers.
2008: Mariano Rivera's 2008 Season
During the 2008 season, Mariano Rivera began with personal bests of 16 consecutive scoreless innings and 28 consecutive converted saves. His performance earned him his ninth All-Star selection. On September 15, 2008, he recorded his 479th save, placing him second all-time in regular season saves. On September 21, 2008, he threw the final pitch at the old Yankee Stadium. Despite the Yankees missing the postseason, Rivera had a strong individual year. He later revealed he had been playing through shoulder pain.
2008: Rivera's Cutter Usage
From 2008 to 2013, Mariano Rivera consistently relied on his cutter, throwing it at least 82% of the time each season, demonstrating its significance in his pitching repertoire.
2009: Rivera Voted Top Postseason Player
A 2009 ESPN.com poll recognized Mariano Rivera as one of the top five postseason players in MLB history, solidifying his reputation for exceptional performance under pressure.
2009: Mariano Rivera's 2009 Season
Mariano Rivera's 2009 season started with concerns about his performance, but he rebounded to become the second pitcher to reach 500 regular-season saves on June 28, 2009, also collecting his first career RBI on the same day. Selected for his tenth All-Star game, he set a new record with his fourth All-Star save. He finished the season with a 1.76 ERA, 44 saves, and an impressive postseason performance, culminating in a World Series victory against the Phillies. His accomplishments earned him accolades such as Delivery Man of the Year and Sporting News Pro Athlete of the Year.
2010: Mariano Rivera's 2010 Season
In 2010, Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, and Jorge Posada made history as the first trio in major North American sports to play 16 consecutive seasons on the same team. Rivera had a stellar first half, including a personal best streak of 24 retired batters. Despite missing the All-Star game due to injury, and a less effective second half of the season, he achieved a strong 1.80 ERA and signed a two-year, $30 million contract in the off-season.
2010: Significant Charitable Contributions
Mariano Rivera donated $627,500 to charity in 2010.
2011: Mariano Rivera's Milestone Season
In 2011, Mariano Rivera achieved several significant milestones. He broke the record for most games finished, became the 15th pitcher to make 1,000 appearances (and the first to do so with a single team), and was named an All-Star for the 12th time. He also pursued the all-time saves record, reaching 600 saves on September 13th and then breaking Hoffman's record of 601 saves on September 19th. He finished the season with a 1.91 ERA and 44 saves.
2011: Ranked as a Marketable Player
Nielsen ranked Rivera as the second-most marketable baseball player in 2011.
2012: Season-Ending Injury
Mariano Rivera's 2012 season was cut short by a torn ACL suffered during batting practice on May 3rd. Despite initial speculation about retirement, he announced his intention to return. Rafael Soriano filled in as closer in his absence.
2012: Investment in Siro's Restaurant
Rivera invested in Siro's restaurant in Manhattan, which opened in 2012.
2012: Recognition for Charitable Giving
The Giving Back Fund ranked Mariano Rivera as the 25th-most generous celebrity in 2012, based on his 2010 donations.
March 9, 2013: Retirement Announcement and Farewell Tour
On March 9, 2013, Mariano Rivera announced his retirement after the 2013 season. During his final season, he embarked on a farewell tour, meeting with fans and team employees at each ballpark. Opposing teams honored him with gifts, and corporate sponsors paid tribute as well.
September 22, 2013: Mariano Rivera Day and Number Retirement
On September 22, 2013, which was declared "Mariano Rivera Day" by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the Yankees held a pre-game ceremony to retire Rivera's number 42. This made him the first active Yankee to have his number retired. Metallica performed "Enter Sandman" live.
2013: Top-Selling Jersey
Rivera's jersey was a top seller in the latter half of 2013.
2013: Number Retirement
The Yankees retired Mariano Rivera's uniform number 42 in 2013.
2013: New York Board of Rabbis Man of the Year
Rivera was named "Man of the Year" by the New York Board of Rabbis in 2013.
2013: Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award
Rivera won the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award in 2013 for inspiring others through his performances and community contributions.
2013: Retirement
Mariano Rivera retired from professional baseball in 2013.
2013: Rivera's Cutter Usage
From 2008 to 2013, Mariano Rivera consistently relied on his cutter, throwing it at least 82% of the time each season, demonstrating its significance in his pitching repertoire.
2013: Mariano Rivera Foundation Goes Public
In 2013, due to increased interest and donations, Mariano Rivera's private foundation transitioned into a public organization with Naomi Gandia as its executive director.
March 2014: Rivera Opens Church in New Rochelle
In March 2014, Mariano Rivera opened Refugio de Esperanza, a church in New Rochelle, New York, renovated and funded by his foundation.
March 2014: Humanitarian Awards and Panama "Legends Series"
In March 2014, Rivera received the ROBIE Humanitarian Award and a Jefferson Award. Additionally, the "Legends Series" baseball games were held in Panama in his honor.
April 9, 2014: AL Reliever of the Year Award Named After Rivera
On April 9, 2014, MLB announced the renaming of the AL Reliever of the Year Award after Mariano Rivera.
May 21, 2014: Rivera Avenue Dedication and Honorary Degree
A section of River Avenue was renamed "Rivera Avenue" on May 21, 2014. Rivera also received an honorary degree from New York University.
2014: AL Reliever of the Year Award Named After Rivera
MLB named its American League Reliever of the Year Award in Mariano Rivera's honor in 2014.
2014: Mariano III Drafted by Yankees, Returns to College
Mariano Rivera's son, Mariano III, was drafted by the New York Yankees in 2014 but chose to continue his college baseball career at Iona College.
2014: Establishment of the Rivera Scholarship
Mariano and Clara Rivera established a scholarship in their names at the College of New Rochelle in 2014.
October 2015: Rivera Becomes US Citizen
Mariano Rivera became a naturalized citizen of the United States in October 2015 and was honored as an Outstanding American by Choice.
2015: Opening of Toyota Dealership
In 2015, Rivera opened a Toyota and Scion dealership in Mount Kisco, New York.
2015: First Trip to Israel
Rivera participated in a trip to Israel in 2015, facilitated by the New York Board of Rabbis.
2015: Induction into Little League Hall of Excellence
Rivera was inducted into the Little League Hall of Excellence in 2015.
August 14, 2016: Yankees Monument Park Plaque
The Yankees dedicated a plaque to Rivera in Monument Park on August 14, 2016.
2016: Ken Griffey Jr.'s Hall of Fame Election
Ken Griffey Jr. held the record for highest Hall of Fame election percentage before Rivera, receiving 99.3% of votes in 2016.
March 2017: Appointment to Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission
Rivera was appointed to the Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission by President Trump in March 2017.
August 2018: Fundraiser for America First Action PAC
Rivera co-hosted a fundraiser dinner for the America First Action PAC in August 2018.
2018: Second Trip to Israel
Rivera made a second trip to Israel in 2018, including a visit to an Israeli Defense Forces base.
January 22, 2019: Unanimous Election to Baseball Hall of Fame
Mariano Rivera was unanimously elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on January 22, 2019.
February 2019: Rivera Faces Paternity Lawsuit
In February 2019, Mariano Rivera faced a lawsuit in Panama from a woman claiming he had fathered two children out of wedlock and had stopped providing financial support.
June 2019: Partnership with eBay
Rivera partnered with eBay in June 2019 to auction sports memorabilia for his foundation.
July 12, 2019: Mariano Rivera Honored at Saratoga Race Course
On July 12, 2019, the New York Racing Association hosted Mariano Rivera as their guest of honor at Saratoga Race Course and held a fundraising luncheon to benefit his foundation.
July 2019: Attends Christians United for Israel Conference
Rivera attended the Christians United for Israel conference in July 2019.
July 2019: Defends Political Stance
Rivera defended his political views and support for President Trump in July 2019.
July 2019: Joins Washington Speakers Bureau
Mariano Rivera joined the Washington Speakers Bureau as a paid public speaker in July 2019.
July 21, 2019: Induction into the Hall of Fame
Rivera was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on July 21, 2019, in Cooperstown.
September 2019: Presidential Medal of Freedom
Mariano Rivera received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in September 2019.
September 16, 2019: Mariano Rivera Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom
On September 16, 2019, President Trump awarded Mariano Rivera the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, for his contributions to baseball and his community work through the Mariano Rivera Foundation.
December 2019: Riveras Sell Tampa Home
In December 2019, Mariano and Clara Rivera sold their lakefront property in Tampa, Florida.
2019: Hall of Fame Induction
Mariano Rivera was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2019.
2019: Rivera's Legacy Cemented
In 2019, Mariano Rivera's status as one of baseball's all-time greatest relievers was solidified by accolades from experts, peers, and sportswriters. He was compared to legends like Michael Jordan and Wayne Gretzky, with some claiming his dominance at his position was unparalleled in baseball history.
December 2020: Reappointment to President's Council
Rivera was reappointed to the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition for a second term in December 2020.
2020: Riveras Plan Move to White Plains
In 2020, Mariano and Clara Rivera listed their Rye home for sale and planned to move to a new house in White Plains, New York.
2021: Launch of the Mariano Rivera Mentorship Program
The Mariano Rivera Foundation launched the Mariano Rivera Mentorship Program, a faith-based initiative for underprivileged males, in 2021.
2022: Red Sox Historic Comeback
As of 2022, the Boston Red Sox remain the only team in MLB history to overcome a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series, which they achieved against the Yankees in the 2004 ALCS.
2022: Rivera Ranked Among All-Time Greats
Mariano Rivera's standing as an all-time great continued to be recognized in 2022, with ESPN.com ranking him among the top baseball players and later among the top 100 professional athletes of the 21st century.
2022: Opening of Honda Dealership
Rivera opened a Honda dealership in Port Jefferson Station, New York, in 2022.
2022: Continues Service on President's Council
While new co-chairs were appointed in 2022, Rivera continued serving as a member of the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.
2024: Modeling for Yankees and NOWHERE collaboration
In 2024, Rivera modeled for a streetwear line created in collaboration between the New York Yankees and the clothing brand New York or Nowhere.
2024: Endorses Trump for President
Rivera endorsed Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election.