When Mariano Rivera's World Series blunder ended New York Yankees dynasty in an epic Game 7 showdown against D-backs
In 2001, legendary New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera's World Series blunder ended New York's dynasty dreams. This occurred in a dramatic Game 7 against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Mariano's mistake made way for the underdog Diamondbacks to defeat the three-time defending World Series champion Yankees 3-2.
Mariano Rivera's own throwing error led the Yankees to lose the World Series on the verge of the team's fourth straight title. It was highly unusual given that he was known for being one of the greatest closers in the game.
"That's baseball. There's nothing I can do about it," said Rivera, referring to the legacy-building defeat.
The video below shows the big moment:
The 1996 World Series victory was Arizona's first and only World Series title in franchise history. While it was an immensely proud moment for the team, it feels like a very long time ago now.
The time Tim McCarver predicted Luis Gonzalez’ World Series winning flare into the short outfield off Mariano Rivera: youtu.be/gNt3UuDTBz8
"The time Tim McCarver predicted Luis Gonzalez’ World Series winning flare into the short outfield off Mariano Rivera:" - Kelsey Myers
New York Yankees reclaimed the World Series glory in 2009
In 2009, the Yankees returned to the World Series for the first time in six years and defeated the Phillies, 4-2, winning their 27th World Series championship.
Today In 2009: The New York #Yankees win the World Series, defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in six games! #MLB #Baseball #History https://t.co/VfsTZn30EG
"The Yankees win the World Series, defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in six games!" -Baseball By BSmile
It was a momentous occasion for Yankees fans who had been patiently waiting for the team to make its return to the top.
With the Yankees gearing up for a big 2023 campaign with sky-high expectations, it will be interesting to see if they can deliver the World Series championship.