In a move that fans have long awaited, the Yankees announced this week that they will commission a life-size statue of Mariano Rivera — the first unanimous Hall of Famer in MLB history — to be placed at the iconic stadium’s Monument Park entrance. The statue will be a permanent symbol of Rivera’s unparalleled career and enduring impact on the franchise.
“Mariano was more than a closer. He was the heartbeat of the Yankees for two decades,” said team president Randy Levine. “This statue is our way of saying thank you — not just for the saves, but for the class, the humility, and the excellence he brought every single day.”
Rivera, who joined the Yankees from Panama in 1995, spent his entire 19-year MLB career in pinstripes. With a record-breaking 652 career saves, five World Series championships, and 13 All-Star selections, he became the most dominant closer the game has ever seen.
But beyond the stats, Rivera became a symbol of quiet strength — a man who let his cutter and composure do the talking. His No. 42, retired throughout Major League Baseball, will soon be honored in bronze as well.
The statue is expected to be unveiled in the 2026 season and will capture Rivera mid-stride — glove tucked at his side, eyes locked on the mound, as Metallica’s iconic anthem echoes in the hearts of fans once more.
More than just a closer, Mariano Rivera has remained active in philanthropy since retiring, building schools, supporting underprivileged youth, and spreading a message of faith and perseverance.
“This statue isn’t just for Mariano — it’s for every kid who dreams big and stays humble,” said Yankees GM Brian Cashman.
With this tribute, the Yankees ensure that Rivera’s legacy — and the spirit of clutch, calm dominance he brought to the game — will stand forever at the gates of Yankee Stadium.