Mariano Rivera is a Panamanian right-handed pitcher who has spent his entire 17-year Major League Baseball career with the New York Yankees. The 12-time All-Star and five-time World Series champion is a native of Panama, and donates more than $500,000 annually to underprivileged children in the U.S. and his home country through his non-profit, The Clara & Mariano Rivera Foundation.
Nicknamed "Mo", Rivera debuted in the league in 1995 as a starting pitcher, but found success after being converted to a reliever role in the bullpen. After a breakthrough year in 1996 as a setup pitcher, he became the Yankees' closer in 1997 and has maintained that role for the team ever since. Rivera has made his success by primarily throwing one pitch, a sharp-breaking cut fastball that has been called an all-time great pitch.
Mariano is regarded as one of the greatest closers in baseball history, ranking first in MLB history in games finished and saves. Recognized as a strong postseason performer, he is the Major Leagues' all-time postseason leader in saves and earned run average (ERA). His achievements include winning the American League (AL) Rolaids Relief Man Award five times, the 1999 World Series MVP Award, and the 2003 AL Championship Series MVP Award.
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