Baseball has evolved to the point where teams usually bring in one pitcher to "close" a game. Here are the top five closers in Yankee history.
5) Johnny Murphy: Fifth in franchise history with 104 saves, Murphy pitched out of the bullpen from 1932-1946. He contributed to six World Series championships and was selected to three American League All Star teams.
4) Dave Righetti: The American League Rookie of the Year in 1981
and two time All Star during eleven seasons from 1981-1990, Righetti tossed a no-hitter in
1983 but was then converted into a closer. He ended up second in team history
in saves with 224.
3) Rich Gossage: In seven years with the Yanks from 1978-1983 and 1989, Gossage had a 42-28
record with 151 saves and a 2.14 ERA. A four time All Star, he struck out 512
batters in 533 innings and held opponents to a .207 batting average.
2) Sparky Lyle: Winner of the 1977 Cy Young award, Lyle saved 141
games and had a 2.41 ERA in his seven years with the team from 1972-1978. A three time All
Star, he was an important contributor to the team's championship seasons in the
1970's.
1) Mariano Rivera, P: The all time major league leader in saves with
652, Rivera was 82-60 with a 2.21 ERA during the regular season from 1996-2013. A 13 time All
Star and member of five World Championship teams, he pitched 141 innings in 96
post season games, with an 8-1 record, 42 saves and 0.70 ERA.
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