Mariano Rivera’s decision to retire will be helpful for him, Mika Maussina – MLB News
In an interview with a leading sports website, Former New York Yankees' pitcher Mika Mussina stated that if Mariano Rivera' decision to retire can prove to be really helpful for him.
The reliever has made the most of available opportunities since making his Major League Baseball debut. With all time saves record to his name, Rivera can hardly ask for anything more from his legendary career, he added.
Mussina experienced similar feelings when he decided to retire at the end of 2008 season. He kept his decision to himself and when the moment arrived, he left quietly. Answering Media questions, Rivera stated that he has already made his decision about next season but for now, he will keep it to himself.
Mussina further explained that Rivera will benefit from his decision on retirement as it will have a very soothing effect on his mind. Being 43 years old, Rivera does not have a lot of baseball left in him.
“I think it had a relaxing effect because I wasn’t trying to prove anything to anybody," Mussina told The Post yesterday of his plan to pitch in 2008 knowing there wasn’t going to be a 2009. “It made it less stressful."
"At no point did I tell myself to stay," said Mussina, who went 270-153 in 18 seasons with the Orioles and Yankees. "To think I wouldn’t slip or that there wouldn’t be injuries or poor starts and that at 40 it would be better, that wasn’t realistic."
Last season, Rivera produced magical performances to help the Yankees secure memorable wins. With 44 saves in 49 chances with 1.91 ERA, he looked on top of his game. However, maintaining that kind of consistency will not be as easy for Rivera since his reflexes are not as quick as they used to be. Mussina told the reporters that when he decided to quick, people told him he should not quit.
Even after earning 20 wins on the final day of the season prior to his retirement, he had no regrets. It is always difficult to find players who leave the centre stage in prime form and Mussina was one of them.
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