Yankees Mariano Rivera Could Pitch This Year

Although disputed by New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, Mariano Rivera could potentially pitch for the Yankees in 2012.

Cashman said yesterday “in terms of 2012, he’s out.”  Rivera is working out in Tampa and has begun running and doing some long tossing. although still considered a long shot to pitch this season

Rivera has a long-standing reputation for working very hard at his craft. He is working out four days a week three hours at a time.

Ultimately the decision on whether or not Rivera could or should return, is up to his surgeon  Dr. David Altchek, the Yankees and Rivera himself. “Right now, he’s shut down until next year.”

Apparently that is not stopping Rivera from pushing himself to the limit in order to get back in shape. Rivera has been on the DL  with what was first believed to be a full tear of his ACL. As it turns out it was a partial tear, making the possibility of recovery this year possible.

Dr. Keith Pyne said Rivera has an incredible workout ethic, and has advanced faster in his recovery than any of the previous athletes he has worked with in the past.

The Yankees are in first place in the American League East and have a seven-game lead on the Baltimore Orioles.

You can be sure the Yankees will not take any chances with Rivera. Rivera owns the major league record for saves with 608

David Robertson initially took over the closer role, but when he was injured Rafael Soriano stepped in and has been very effective closing games.