Rivera Pitches A Perfect Eighth Inning, Earns All-Star Game MVP Award
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- American League manager Jim Leyland kept his promise. He brought in New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera in the eighth inning against the National League at Citi Field.
The indomitable closer tossed a perfect inning and soaked up a pair of standing ovations while helping the American League to a 3-0 victory over the National League on Tuesday night at Citi Field.
While Rivera was warming up in the bullpen, a familiar sound was heard over the PA system at Citi Field.
Metallica's "Enter Sandman" played while Rivera ran across the outfield and was left alone on the field for more than a minute to take in a rousing ovation.
"It was a great moment. He is one of the best pitchers that's ever played this game," Tigers outfielder Torii Hunter said.
Players on both sides clapped from the top of the dugout steps, and Rivera tipped his cap to the crowd.
Then he went to work, retiring three straight hitters on 16 pitches before walking off to another ovation.
"It was tough. It was special," an emotional Rivera said. "Seeing the fans sharing and both teams standing out of the dugout, managers, coaches players, priceless."
After the game Rivera stood by second base and was presented the All-Star Game MVP Award by Commissioner Bud Selig. After accepting the award he had his family join him as he was presented keys to a brand new Chevy Corvette.
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