Mariano Rivera Suffers Achilles Tendon Injury During Yankees’ Old-Timers’ Day Game, Requires Surgery

Iconic pitcher Mariano Rivera sustained an injury to his Achilles tendon during the New York Yankees’ Old-Timers’ Day game on Saturday. The 55-year-old, known for his record-breaking saves in baseball, will undergo surgery within a week.

In a brief appearance at the plate, Rivera singled off former teammate Andy Pettitte and reached first base comfortably. During an at-bat by Willie Randolph, Rivera stepped awkwardly in shallow center field behind second base and fell to the ground.

The Old-Timers’ Day game made its comeback for the first time since 2019.

Seven-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens shared his dismay with WFAN broadcaster Suzyn Waldman, stating, “It was a fantastic day until we heard about Mariano. Mariano suffered an Achilles injury.” Initially, it was believed to be a hamstring injury, but further assessment revealed it to be more severe. Rivera is reportedly hospitalized at this time.

In May 2012, Rivera tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee while fielding fly balls during batting practice in Kansas City. Despite the injury, he returned for his final season in 2013 and cemented his place as baseball’s career saves leader with 652. He also recorded 42 postseason saves.

In 2019, Rivera became the first player ever to be unanimously inducted into the Hall of Fame by earning all 425 votes in the Baseball Writers’ Association of America balloting. Throughout his career, he contributed significantly to the Yankees’ five World Series titles and seven American League pennants.

This was Rivera’s second time participating in the Old-Timers’ Game. He had previously hit an inside-the-park homer in 2019.

The event honored the 25th anniversary of the 2000 championship team, marking the last team to win three consecutive World Series titles. Notable attendees included Roger Clemens and Derek Jeter, who delivered a video message during Rivera’s introduction.

Before the game, Rivera expressed his intention to counsel struggling reliever Devin Williams.