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Yankees closer Mariano Rivera had surgery on his right shoulder and is expected to resume throwing in three months, a month ahead of spring training.

Mariano Rivera could need minor arthroscopic surgery on the shoulder, but it would not be expected to affect him next spring.

On an evening that will never be forgotten, the Yankees’ bit players etched their name in the history of the storied Yankee Stadium, and kept the narrowest sliver of hope for a playoff spot alive.

The Yankees have quietly gained two games on the Red Sox in the American League wild-card standings since Aug. 16.

Alex Rodriguez saved the Yankees with a line-drive homer to center off Matt Guerrier in the 12th inning.

With the game tied at the brink of a three-game sweep by the team with the best record in baseball, the Yankees, could not pile on when they needed to.

After an eight-inning deadlock, a single by Vladimir Guerrero and a base hit by Torii Hunter scored Reggie Willits for the only run of the game.

As popular as Derek Jeter is and as supremely talented as Alex Rodriguez is, the most indispensable Yankee on the field Tuesday will, as always, be Mariano Rivera.

The Yankees learned of Bobby Murcer’s death Saturday, minutes after a victory. Suddenly the music stopped thumping through the speakers, and a celebration turned somber.

It may be the last All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium and Mariano Rivera will likely feature in the game, but don't expect him to be American League Manager Terry Francona's choice to start next Tuesday.