Part 3/9:
Rivera’s breakout year came in 1996 when he helped the Yankees return to the World Series for the first time since 1978, allowing just one run in four appearances during the Finals. Following this success, he was named the Yankees’ closer in 1997. Unfortunately, the newfound pressure led to a rocky start, with Rivera blowing multiple saves early in the season. However, a pivotal moment occurred during warm-ups when he discovered a new pitch that would change the trajectory of his career: the cutter.
This pitch, an advanced variation of his fastball that exhibited remarkable movement, became the cornerstone of Rivera's pitching arsenal. Over the years, it would wreak havoc on opposing hitters, significantly impacting their approach at the plate.