Rivera has logged more than 1,200 innings in his 15-year career. Yankees pitching coach Dave Eiland understands that Rivera does well to stay in shape on his own, which is why the team allows him to work at his own pace in spring training.
"He's about as low-maintenance as it gets," Eiland told The Times.
Yankees pitcher Andy Pettite feels Rivera knows his body so well that he makes preparing for the regular season look easy.
"He knows exactly how long it takes for him to get ready," Pettite said. "I'm a little jealous. I wish it was that easy for me."
Rivera enjoys his preparation, and feels exercise is part of the game.
"If I don't love this, then I definitely don't love the game," Rivera said. "You cannot just love one thing and hate the other. You have to love them both because it comes with the game."
The Yankees will find out how Rivera's preparation has gone when the Yankees kick off their season against the Red Sox on April 4.
