VIDEO: Mariano Rivera Reflecting on Yankees Career During HOF Speech is Incredible
By Jerry Trotta
Sunday afternoon was truly just like old times for Yankees fans: Mariano Rivera finishing off the day in memorable fashion. The Hall-of-Fame closer was the last of six speakers addressing the Clark Sports Center crowd and his speech perfectly summarized his legendary career -- poignant and unforgettable.
"I tried to carry the pinstripes the best that I could." - @MarianoRivera. @Yankees | @baseballhall | #HOFWKND pic.twitter.com/6epDQzYfpl
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) July 21, 2019
“I never even thought I would make any All-Star teams. I didn’t play for those types of things,” said Rivera. “I played to win championships, and that’s what I was focused on. The rest was blessings from the Lord.”
If that quote isn't a testament to Rivera's benevolence and humbleness, then nothing is.
Forever enshrined. The first-ever unanimous selection gives his speech now!
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) July 21, 2019
RETWEET for your chance at a baseball signed by the legendary closer! Rules in bio. pic.twitter.com/wnHLxVAOe6
The GOAT closer appeared in 13 All-Star Games and had a career ERA of 2.21 -- good for the 11th lowest of all time by the way. And across his historic postseason career, Mo tallied a microscopic 0.70 ERA and mind-boggling 42 saves. Let's not forget about his 1999 World Series MVP and 2003 ALCS MVP.
We hope that the Pinstripe faithful have a healthy dose of tissues nearby. Upon watching this touching clip, they might just rip through an entire box.