In his standard workmanlike fashion, the esteemed Yankees closer, Mariano Rivera, tore through the three hitters the Twins offered during the top of the 9th inning Monday at Yankee Stadium, becoming Major League Baseball’s all-time career saves leader with 602.

And after Rivera embraced every single member of the Yankees – and with the visiting Twins standing atop the steps of their dugout looking on – Rivera was prompted by teammates to soak in the defining moment. He stepped back onto the mound and tipped his hat to the crowd, which offered him a standing ovation.

And in proper Mariano Rivera fashion, he was all smiles. And all by himself at the top.

Shockingly, the 41-year-old is as steadfast as ever. In an era when successful ninth-inning men have the shelf-life of a handful of seasons, Rivera has already converted 10 more saves than last year (33), and he could have a few more years ahead of him.