Mariano Rivera Plays in Old Timers Game Amid Lawsuit, Tears Achilles Heel
Mariano Rivera, a New York church leader and former professional baseball player, played in the "Old Timers" Major League Baseball (MLB) game Saturday and tore his Achilles heel.
Mariano Rivera and his wife, Clara Rivera, have a pending lawsuit in New York for allegedly covering up child sexual abuse at Gainesville church Ignite Life Center. The lawsuit further alleges the Riveras covered up more child sexual abuse that occurred at their former estate.
The MLB allowed Mariano Rivera to play in the Old Timers game despite the allegations.
Mariano Rivera’s injury wasn’t revealed publicly until former Yankees player Roger Clemens told WFAN radio about the incident. “Mariano hurt his Achilles,” he said. “I don’t know what was going on. We all thought it was a hamstring, but I think it's a little worse than that.”
Clemens said he believed there was a “pop” and that Mariano Rivera has been hospitalized.
Mariano Rivera’s sports agent, Fernando Cuza, confirmed Clemens' statements and told reporters that he will undergo surgery within this week.
Mariano Rivera spoke with a sports journalist before the game, saying his jersey represents “determination, passion, power and love.”
Court records show Mariano Rivera will have a deposition in the lawsuit on January 21, 2026, meaning he'll likely be in a condition to walk by the time he has to appear.
