Mariano Rivera may have thrown his last pitch in a Yankee uniform.
The durable 42-year-old future Hall-of-Famer reportedly landed awkwardly on his right knee while shagging fly balls in the outfield before Thursday night's game between the Yankees and Royals in Kansas City, tearing his ACL and meniscus.
Rivera, who hasn't been on the disabled list since 2003, fought back tears as he told the media his season and career is in jeopardy moments after the Yankees lost to the Royals at Kauffman Stadium.
Rivera, who broke the major league saves record last season, hinted to reporters in February that this could be his final season. ACL injuries typically take about nine months to heal, making it a stretch for Rivera to return by the end of 212.
Widely regarded at the greatest relief pitcher of all time, Rivera has closed 608 games during his brilliant 18-year career, all with the Yankees. He holds the record for post-season saves and has won World Series and ALCS most valuable player awards during his career. He was a key part of five Yankee World Series championship teams.
A Purchase resident, Rivera also has ties to Westchester County. He owned a steakhouse in New Rochelle for a few years and had a son attend at one point.
He told reporters Thursday night he "doesn't know" if the injury will end his record-setting career.
"Going to have to face this first," ESPN reports he said. "It all depends on how the rehab is going to happen, and from there we'll see."
