If Rivera cannot pitch in tie game situations, then WHY does Girardi continue to put him in?

Question

If Rivera cannot pitch in tie game situations, then WHY does Girardi continue to put him in?

Answer 1

Ridiculous...

Rivera is arguably the greatest closer ever and you want to sit him in a tie situation.  Excellent Idea!!!

I am also willing to bet he has more wins than loses meaning he comes out on top in tie situations more often than not!

Answer 2

This is only a recent trend for Mo. But he's still you're best bet out of the bull pen in the ninth inning. I suspect this is why they are bringing Joba back to the pen after his stint on the dl.

Answer 3

Because he thinks Rivera can still get it done.

Answer 4

B/c when it comes down to it Rivera is still the best choice & hope if you look at the rest of the bullpen that is available. It's obvious Girardi has more faith in Rivera than the rest of the Yankee Bullpen.

Answer 5

Rivera is a guy who wants to pitch when the game is on the line. However, he's older now, and hitters have a better idea of whats coming.

Giradi wants to win these close ball games, and he thinks the best arm in that bullpen is Mariano Rivera.

Just like Torre, Girardi trusts Mariano too much.

Answer 6

you guys are 9 games out or so. about 6 out of the wild card. It would take a lot to get you back. it really doesnt matter weather you win or lose anymore. Im sorry but the 2008 playoffs will have to Yankees.

Answer 7

Why can't he pitch in tie games?  It shouldn't matter what the score is, a pitcher should come in and do his job (especially someone who is supposed to be so dominant).

Answer 8

I don't think Rivera has every had a problem coming into tie games or into games where the Yanks are losing and he is in to keep the score the same.  Today's closers though are sooo use to coming into games in save situations that they occasionally struggle in other situations.  For example the dreaded situation where a manager brings in a closer with a 4 run lead.  The closer can't get a save and for some reason get too laxed on the mound.  They end up throwing fastballs down the middle and before you know it..they bases are loaded with the tying or winning run at the plate.  I think mentally they are use to coming into games knowing that they limited room for error and pitch according but sometimes too much room for error can have a negative effect on their pitch selection.  i have been  watching MLB for 25 years and I have seen this happen hundreds of times including to some of the better closers in the game.