Advertisement

Mariano Rivera seems happy, fulfilled in retirement

(AP Photo)
(AP Photo)

Legendary New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera put in some hard work during his 19 seasons in the majors.

Despite playing the highest-pressure position on the most popular team in the game, Rivera racked up an incredible 652 saves and a 2.21 ERA over his career.

Rivera could have called it quits in 2012 after suffering a season-ending knee injury, but opted to work his way back for one final season.

A player who has put in that much over such a long period should be able to appreciate the relaxation that comes with retirement. For Rivera, though, being active after leaving the game has been important.

In an interview with Big League Stew, Rivera admits that, while he still watches the Yankees, he doesn't really have a desire to get back into the game in any capacity. We're not just talking coming out of retirement to play, we're talking about coaching, managing or taking on active roles in the front office.

"I'm watching the game, and staying in contact with a few guys from the team, but right now, no." He adds, "working, or doing something with the New York Yankees, perhaps, no. Not right now."

That was the same sentiment echoed by Rivera's former teammate Derek Jeter. In April, Jeter told reporters he didn't miss the game "at all."

The closest Rivera has come to working in the game is probably in role as the Yankees' ambassador for the Delta Air Lines Delta Dugout program. The program will reward fans with unique experiences and prizes based on the number of saves a team compiles. For example, 15 Yankees fans will receive a Rivera autographed hat once the team picks up 20 saves.

[Check out Big League Stew on Tumblr for even more baseball awesomeness.]

One fan from each of the five participating clubs will win the grand prize, which includes on-field access during batting practice and tickets to sit in a Delta suite during the contest. Rivera said being the team's ambassador for the program was a way of showing his appreciation for the fans.

"It's something nice, something different. It's a one of a kind type of experience," he added.

(AP Photo)
(AP Photo)

He's also remained active within his community. "What I'm doing now is working with the community. I'm working in the church and with the [Mariano Rivera] Foundation in the New York area," Rivera said.

Though Rivera has no plans to return to the game in a working capacity any time soon, that doesn't mean they are actively looking to be away from baseball. Rivera reunited with some of his former teammates, including Jeter, for Bernie Williams Day.

"It was great to be able to see the guys and spend a little time with them. It was special. And being there for Bernie, it was good. It brings back memories of the great teams that we had," Rivera said.

(AP Photo)
(AP Photo)

Rivera also offered up his thoughts on Alex Rodriguez's resurgence. Unlike his battery mate Jorge Posada, Rivera has no issue supporting A-Rod.

"He's my friend and I'm happy with what he's accomplished thus far," Rivera said. "It's exciting. I'm excited for him."

He also discussed the recent pitcher ejections, echoing statements made by John Farrell regarding whether pitchers should be allowed to use pinetar or other substances on the mound.

"If you're going to do something, at least hide it," he said. Rivera added that it's not about getting more movement on the ball, it's about getting a better grip. "At the same time, don't be too obvious. Don't rub it in their face and be like, 'look what I have.' It's something that you just have to be smart about."

Though he remains knowledgeable about the game, it's clear retirement has been a good thing. "I've been enjoying the time off with the family, and doing everything I wanted to do," he said.

After spending 19 seasons in one of the most high-stress positions in the game, Rivera has earned every right to just relax, even if that's not his style.

More MLB coverage from Yahoo Sports:

- - - - - - -

Chris Cwik is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik