Mariano Rivera records save with perfect ninth inning for Yankees against Royals, insists he's fine

KANSAS CITY - Yankee fans may have been worried about Mariano Rivera after three rocky outings last week, but the closer wasn't concerned.

Rivera calmed any fears Monday night, throwing a perfect ninth inning to earn his 31st save of the season in the Yankees' 7-4 win over the Royals. Asked if the crisis was over, Rivera chuckled.

"It's daily routine, guys," Rivera said. "I don't worry about it. I have peace of mind, believe me."

Rivera had been frustrated after his last save, having given up a three-run home run to Russell Branyan before closing the win against the Angels last Thursday.

"You just want to do your job, especially in a situation like that when your teammates are there battling and you go out there and don't do your job," Rivera said. "We won. The whole team did great."

Rivera had little trouble Monday night, as Salvador Perez grounded out to first base to start the ninth, then Mike Moustakas grounded out to shortstop. Rivera caught Alcides Escobar looking at strike three to end the game, recording career save No. 590, 11 shy of Trevor Hoffman's all-time record.

NO SPLITTER, NO FREDDY
Freddy Garcia's right index finger isn't quite ready for action, but the veteran appears to be close to a return to the mound. Garcia, who cut himself in what has been described as a kitchen accident, is to test his finger in the bullpen either Tuesday or Wednesday. As long as he can throw his splitter, Garcia should be penciled into the rotation sometime during this weekend's series in Minnesota.