NEW YORK (AP) — Mariano Rivera has become the first pitcher in major league history to have appeared in 1,000 games for one team and the 15th to reach the plateau overall when the Yankees closer was called on in the ninth inning against Toronto on Wednesday.
The understated right-hander with a bat-breaking cut fastball started 10 games in 1995, but he’s been a steady presence in the Yankees’ bullpen during their renaissance. Rivera has helped the franchise to 15 playoff appearances and five World Series titles.
Next up for the 41-year-old Rivera is Goose Gossage with 1,002 games. Jesse Orosco is the all-time leader with 1,252 appearances.
Trevor Hoffman is second for most appearances with one team. He had 902 of his 1,035 games with San Diego, according to STATS LLC.
