Blue Jays honour retiring Yankees closer Mariano Rivera
Veteran presented with Inuit sculpture
The Blue Jays gave Mariano Rivera something to remember Canada by in his final trip north of the border with the New York Yankees.
Rivera was presented with a carving by Inuit sculptor David Ruben Piqtoukun before Thursday's game between the Yankees and Blue Jays. The carving depicts Kiviuq, a popular hero figure in Inuit legends and stories.
Blue Jays players Jose Bautista, Casey Janssen and Darren Oliver joined Rivera at a table set up in front of the pitcher's mound for the brief pregame ceremony, which also included a highlight montage set to Rivera's entrance music, Metallica's 'Enter Sandman.' Rivera also received a $10,000 donation to his charitable foundation.
The 43-year-old has said he will retire after this season, his 19th in the majors, all with the Yankees. His 652 saves are the most in major league history.