Prior to Saturday evening, the last time Mariano Rivera was given a standing ovation by fans in Boston was the day the Red Sox received their rings after winning their first World Series in 86 years. The Sox had gotten the best of Rivera during the 2004 ALCS, and the applause was the fans’ way of mocking him for his uncharacteristic performance. The veteran took it in stride.
On Saturday, the reception Mo received at Fenway Park was much more genuine. Red Sox fans gave him a standing ovation as he jogged out from the bullpen en route to his 31st save of the season. The hospitality continued after the game.
Just witnessed great scene in a Boston steakhouse. An ovation for Mariano Rivera from entire restaurant. In Boston! @MLBONFOX #Yankees
— Kenny Albert (@KennyAlbert) July 21, 2013
Between his special moment at the All-Star game and all the incredible gifts teams have presented him with this season, Rivera is enjoying one of the most memorable farewell tours in sports history. For the greatest closer of all-time and one of the classiest players in baseball, the attention is beyond well-deserved.
