Mariano Rivera remains optimistic that he can return to the New York Yankees during the 2012 season after tearing his ACL shagging fly balls in May. On Monday he spoke with ESPN Radio's Michael Kay and said that a comeback in September is not out of the question.
"That's my goal," Rivera said. "Definitely, that's my goal. I'm not thinking about it, because if it doesn't happen, I will be disappointed. So I'm taking it day by day. I'm working hard and doing what I'm supposed to do. I don't want to put something in my mind.
"I want to make sure that I do my things first. That's what I'm doing, that's the way I'm thinking. Day by day, positive, optimism. Whatever the Lord will allow to happen, that will happen."
Doctors have been very impressed with Rivera's recovery, and the closer himself says he feels good. If he can begin running and throwing at the end of July, Rivera could be in line for a late season return.
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