New York Yankees Memories: 2013 MLB All-Star Game: Enter The Sandman

Jul 16, 2013; Flushing, NY, USA; American League pitcher Mariano Rivera (42) of the New York Yankees throws against the National League during the ninth inning of the 2013 All Star Game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

One, two, three. Now That’s An MVP.

True to his word, Leyland called upon Mariano for the eighth inning. As Mo entered the game to the tune of his beloved “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, he entered to a standing ovation of the most special kind. As he tipped his cap to show his gratitude, he shared the field with no one. His teammates stood and cheered from the American League dugout. His opponents stood and cheered from the National League dugout. And the 45,186 fans in attendance joined along.

Some of the players stepped out of the dugout just to be closer to him. Undoubtedly, the climax of his entrance came when Mariano kissed the insignia on his Yankee cap before returning it to his head. Although he belonged to all of baseball on this unforgettable night, he showed the world where his heart was. That belonged to only one franchise: The New York Yankees!

And when it was time to get down to business, Mariano did not disappoint. It was a one, two, three inning. Up they came, and down they went. It took him just 16 pitches to preserve the American League’s  3-0 lead. The Sandman had done it again. And Leyland had made good on his vow to give him the chance to put the National League to sleep.

Next: M-V-P! M-V-P!