Mariano Rivera’s Achilles Injury at Yankees Old-Timers’ Day
Legendary New York Yankees pitcher Mariano Rivera reportedly sustained an Achilles injury during the team’s 77th Old-Timers’ Day game on Saturday. The incident was confirmed by a team spokesperson to the New York Daily News. The injury was first disclosed by former Yankees pitcher Rodger Clemens during an interview on the WFAN broadcast of the Yankees game. Clemens remarked, “It was a fun day until we just heard about Mariano. Mariano hurt his Achilles. I think he’s at the hospital now.”
A Memorable Performance Despite Injury
Despite the unfortunate injury, Rivera managed to deliver one of the highlights of the day. He stepped up to bat and hit a single off his former teammate and fellow Yankees legend, Andy Pettite. This performance was part of the celebrations commemorating the Yankees’ 2000 World Series victory over their crosstown rivals, the New York Mets. Rivera, Clemens, and Pettite were all pivotal players in that championship team.
Rivera’s Hall of Fame Legacy
Mariano Rivera holds a unique place in baseball history as the first and only player to be unanimously elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, an honor he received in 2019. His illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning him accolades and recognition as one of the greatest pitchers of all time.
Rivera’s Political Endorsement and Recognition
Beyond baseball, Rivera has been vocal about his support for President Donald Trump, whom he endorsed during Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. Rivera expressed his friendship with Trump on WABC Radio’s “Sid & Friends,” stating, “President Trump, he’s my friend. I can’t deny that.” In 2019, Trump awarded Rivera the Presidential Medal of Freedom, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to baseball.