Rivera, Yankees Agree to 3 Year 45 Million Dollar Contract

Speculation over the destination of Mariano Rivera can come to a close. Today the Yankees and Mariano Rivera agreed to a huge 3 year, 45 million dollar contract that will make Rivera the highest paid reliever by about 4 million dollars per year. In the past few days it was rumored that Rivera was holding out for a fourth year on the contract. However, with the Yankees unwilling to budge, River relented and expected the lucrative offer. This deal seems to guarantee that Rivera will finish his storied career with the only team he has ever known, the Yankees. The Yankees will retain yet another cornerstone of their prior championships in the 90's and hopefully continue their winning ways.

The signing of Rivera greatly improves the Yankees 2008 prospects. Rivera netted a solid 30 saves in 2007 despite early struggles. The Yankees were one of the last teams to record a save in 2007. Rivera did not record a save until April 28^th and blew 2 saves early in the season that resulted in a loss for Rivera. However, Rivera finished strong by converting 11 out of his last 12 save opportunities. Rivera's pinpoint control was strong as he walked only twelve batters in 71.1 innings and struck out 74. These impressive numbers showed Rivera still had the talent to compete at a high level and makes an excellent signing that fortifies the Yankee bullpen. Rivera's save numbers have been down in the past two years but Rivera can still be expected to perform at an elite level. Brian Cashman certainly believes Rivera can get the job done and has shown his confidence in the righty by offering such an impressive contract.

The immediate impact of this signing is that the Yankees can insert Joba Chamberlain into the starting rotation. The rookie showed sensational talent coming out of the bullpen and it was evident that he would remain in the bullpen if the Yankees were unable to resign Rivera. With Rivera's signing the Yankees can move Joba Chamberlain back into his natural role as a starter. The Yankees have retained the best post season closer ever and while the price was high the alternatives were grim. The signing makes sense for both parties involved. There was not one pitcher on the free agent market or that could be reasonably acquired by trade that could replace the legend that is Mariano Rivera. Yankee fans will hear "Enter Sandman" for the next three years as they watch one of the most successful relievers ever on the biggest stage.

Source:

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