Mariano Rivera’s 652 Career Saves
When Mariano Rivera signed with the New York Yankees in 1990 as an undrafted amateur free agent, no one would have thought he would become the best closer in baseball history. In fact, Rivera became one of two pitchers to earn 600-plus saves with a record-breaking 652 saves in his career.
The Panamanian right-handed pitcher began his 19-season pinstriped career in 1995 as a starter. After 10 starts, Rivera capped his rookie season with a 5-3 record and 5.51 ERA. Despite his struggles, his phenomenal performance in the 1995 ALDS proved his worth was better suited in the bullpen.
From 1996 through the remainder of his career, Rivera averaged 39 saves per season. He posted a career-high 53 saves in 2005, which was one of eight seasons where Rivera clinched over 40 saves. Rivera lead the major leagues with 45-plus saves in 1999, 2001 and 2006. Even being a 13-time All-Star, 5-time World Series champion and the 1999 World Series MVP, the pinnacle of his closing career came in 2011.
In 2006, fellow closer Trevor Hoffman claimed the all-time save record and finished is career with 601. However, his record only lasted for five seasons as Rivera caught up to and broke his record in 2011. With five saves in 2012 and 44 during his senior season, Rivera set the record far above breakability.