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Multi-year deal keeps Rivera in pinstripes




By: Russ Rose
Special to Yankees Talk Shop
March 24, 2004

After the perceived Andy Pettitte debacle Yankee fans were justifiably nervous when the Yankees began negotiating to re-sign their world class closer Mariano Rivera to a contract. Rivera, who would have become a free agent at season’s end, stated at the outset of the 2004 spring training campaign he wants to retire a New York Yankee. He was also looking for a three-year deal to keep him in pinstripes through the 2007 season.

The Yankees who are notorious for letting their home grown players twist in the wind when it comes to contract negotiations wasted no time in getting started in retaining Rivera. General Manager Brian Cashman and Rivera’s agent, Fernando Cuza, began dialogue almost immediately after Rivera made it clear he wanted to play his entire career in the Bronx.

Rivera, whose path to greatness began in 1996 when he was the set up man for then closer John Wetteland, is the Yankees’ career leader in saves with 238. He has been a part of four World Series teams (1996, 1998, 1999 and 2000), six AL championship teams (1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2003) and seven East Division championship teams (1996, 1998-2003). He is a five-time all-star and was named the MVP of last year’s ALCS when the Yankees beat the Boston Red Sox in seven games. Additionally, Rivera is ten games shy of the Yankees’ record for pitching appearances, which is currently held by Dave Righetti.

With the signing of Rivera today the Yankees coaching staff can breathe a big sigh of relief knowing they’re going to be solid in the closer's role through the next two, and possibly three seasons. The deal is reportedly good for the 2005 and 2006 seasons, with the Yankees holding an option for the 2007 season. Rivera is guaranteed $10.5 million for the first two seasons and if the Yankees pick up his option (based upon the number of appearances made in 2005 and 2006) Mariano will again make $10.5 million.

Rivera made it clear he wants a shot at the Hall of Fame and he wants to do it wearing a Yankees cap. In this writer’s opinion Mariano Rivera is the game's all-time greatest closer. His entry into the Hall of Fame is ensured. Now we can be thankful he can do it as a Yankee. Congratulations to Brian Cashman and George Streinbrenner for taking care of one of your own. Let the season begin.


PLAY BALL!



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