TAMPA -- The Yankees trickled into the clubhouse Monday morning like any other first workout for pitchers and catchers in any other season. There was a slimmer CC Sabathia, a leaner Phil Hughes and a more sinewy Russell Martin, their bodies telling the stories of their productive off-seasons. There were the endless hugs and handshakes, routine ways to reconnect after four months of separation.
But, as much as this opening of Spring Training felt like any other opening for the Yankees, there could be something that is very different about the next six and a half weeks. This could be the final time that Mariano Rivera, the greatest closer ever, is part of Spring Training. Rivera could be ready to retire.
During two interview sessions with reporters, Rivera hinted strongly that 2012 would be his final season. Rivera acknowledged that he had already decided what he would do after this season and would eventually publicize his decision. Maybe Rivera was being coy or maybe Rivera was telling reporters that he was retiring, without officially saying it just yet.
Once Rivera admitted that he knows his future, he offered evidence that 2012 would be it for him. That’s a decision Rivera can make now. But, conversely, how could Rivera know if he will pitch in 2013 when he hasn’t thrown a pitch in 2012? He could have a serious injury or he could sputter, which I seriously doubt. He also doesn’t know if the Yankees would offer him a deal for 2013 because he hasn’t performed in 2012 yet. But, you see, those issues would be irrelevant to a pitcher who doesn’t expect to pitch next season.
If the mighty Rivera had already planned to pitch in 2013, there would be some presumption on his part. I know he expects to have another superb season. Who doesn’t expect that? Still, Rivera would have to presume that he would remain healthy and effective and presume that the Yankees would want him back. Naturally, the Yankees would want a dependable Rivera back. But, again, it doesn’t seem as if Rivera analyzed those matters because a soon-to-be retired player doesn’t need to worry about them.
While Rivera playfully said that he has mentioned retirement in the past, he said, “This one is different.” Rivera said his family knows his intentions and that he will tell the Yankees those plans, too. That might not be necessary. One Yankees executive who has had discussions with Rivera said that he has seen signs that Rivera is poised to throw his cut fastball for one more season and retire.
Since Rivera has supplied these clues about how the end is near, he has impacted the way fans will view him this season. Watch Rivera closely. Study his smooth motion. Analyze that incredible cutter. Absorb how dominant and how unflappable he is. Appreciate Rivera for being a legend, a legend that is about ready to go home.
Follow Jack Curry on Twitter: @JackCurryYES
