MLB All-Star game becomes tribute to Mariano Rivera
Yankees closer reports early for work and gets amazing ovation from players and fans as the American League regains World Series control
Mariano Rivera was all set up to save his final All-Star game - or so it seemed, but manager Jim Leyland just wasn't about to take that chance.
Summoned in the eighth inning to make certain he would pitch, Rivera soaked up a 90-second standing ovation and got three straight outs while helping the American League to a 3-0 victory over the National League at New York's Citi Field.
"I think the plan was perfect," said Rivera, who took home the MVP trophy.
Rivera reported early for work and the New York Yankees' indomitable closer combined with nine other pitchers on a three-hitter as the AL snapped a three-game skid and regained homefield advantage in the World Series. Joe Nathan saved it in Rivera's place after the AL scratched out a pair of runs and got an RBI double from Jason Kipnis.
Leyland had promised Rivera would pitch. So rather than risk waiting for a save opportunity that might never come, the Detroit Tigers' skipper made his much-awaited call one inning earlier than Rivera is accustomed to, just in case of "something freaky".