The past weeks have been filled with unexpected disappointment for the New York Yankees. Injuries upon injuries upon broken ankles. Today's news — if correct, and it probably is — will be another disappointment for Yankee fans. Though, not unexpected.
Closer Mariano Rivera, 43, will announce Saturday morning that he plans to retire after this season, according to reports from ESPN's Buster Olney and Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
Always possible private Rivera decides to change mind at last sec, but time and room are booked for his retirement announcement #Yankees
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) March 7, 2013
It's no secret that Rivera's historic career is reaching its end. He already said this spring that he's made up his mind about retirement and would announce his decision before the season starts. Announcing a retirement is something you plan and set a date for. Announcing you're not retiring generally doesn't come with grandeur. So all signs point toward retirement for baseball's all-time saves leader.
Like Chipper Jones last year, Rivera would get a year-long send-off and a chance to have a full and healthy season (he's recovering from an injury-shortened 2012). He'll be looking to add to his 608 career saves, which is 308 more than the next active closer on the list, Jason Isringhausen.
The way things are looking for the 2013 Yankees, Rivera may not get as many save opportunities as he did in the team's best years. Either way, he'll go out a king.
Spring training is here. Stretch out with us.
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