YANKEES 101

On May 3 of last season, when Yankees closer Mariano Rivera was being carted off following a freak accident as he customarily took part in shagging fly balls during batting practice in Kansas City, it was hard to imagine Major League Baseball's all-time saves leader coming back for 2013 from what was later confirmed to be a torn right ACL.

Fast forward to Tuesday, and Atlanta-Journal Constitution's David O'Brien confirms that Rivera will face an opposing team for the first time since last April 30, when Rivera clinched his fifth and final save of the season against the Baltimore Orioles,

“Well, looks like we'll see Mariano Rivera's first appearance since surgery: Girardi said he'll pitch Saturday vs. #Braves"

Since the inception of spring training, Rivera has succesfully partaken in all activities, from simulated games to fielding practice. In addition, he has worn a brace, which he anticipates wearing all season, and has shown that said brace will not hinder his ability on or off the mound.

After signing to a one-year, $10 million deal this past offseason, Rivera has yet to discuss his future past the 2013 season, however, he does hint that he might already have a decision in his mind, as previously mentioned,

““I'll tell you in spring training,” he said with a smile. “Spring training is going to be the date.”

Needless to say, at this the point, the aforementioned all-time saves leader in the history of Major League Baseball is simply just adding on to an already brilliant career. Once he retires, his next stop in his baseball journey will be Cooperstown.

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