Mariano Rivera Vs. Robinson Cano: In His Book, ‘The Closer,’ Mo Says He Prefers Dustin Pedroia As Second Baseman

Mariano Rivera has never been the type to slam teammates, ex-teammates or even rivals. That is why the news of him slamming ex-teammate Robinson Cano is so surprising to many. He expresses his feelings towards Cano in his book “The Closer,” which is out today. In the book, Rivera questions Cano’s passion and drive, but this is not the first time this has been said about Cano. He had this reputation last season for not hustling enough.

In the book Mo wrote, “This guy has so much talent. I don’t know where to start. There is no doubt that he is a Hall-of-Fame caliber player. It’s just a question of whether he finds that you need to get there. I don’t think Robby burns to be the best. You don’t see that red-hot passion in him that you see in most elite players.”

The controversy came when he stated his opinion about Boston Red Sox’s second baseman Dustin Pedroia. He said, “Nobody plays harder, gives more, wants to win more. He comes at you hard for 27 outs. It’s a special thing to see. If I had to win one game, I’d have a hard time taking anybody over Dustin Pedroia as my second baseman.”

Rivera is now retired and Cano now plays for the Seattle Mariners so at least this won’t be a distraction for the team.