Rivera takes Hall of Fame weekend spotlight

Photos by Cheryl Wertman – For fans visiting baseball’s Mecca of Cooperstown, Hall of Fame Weekend is always special and this weekend is no exception. Getting to see the Hall of Fame’s first ever unanimous inductee, Mariano Rivera, was the highlight of the visit. The former Yankee record setting relief hurler was certainly the fan favorite at this morning’s annual golf tournament. He is shown here teeing off and signing autographs for fans at the fourth hole of the Leatherstocking Golf Course. Rivera, who played the round with his three sons, and the other members of the Class of 2019 will be officially inducted at ceremonies on Sunday afternoon.

At left, Hall of Famer Tim Raines, who stared for the Montreal Expos, signs for fans at the golf tournament. At right, Hall of Famer Jack Morris, who stared on the mound for the Detroit Tigers, talks with fans at an autograph session on Main Street. To his left is former New York Yankees player and manager Lou Piniella.

Each of the new Hall of Famers was honored with a display of their memorabilia at the Hall of Fame. Shown here are the displays former Yankee and Baltimore Orioles hurler Mike Mussina and Rivera.

The plaque room at the Hall of Fame was a popular spot for fans.

Due to the large crowds, Main Street is closed off to traffic annually on Hall of Fame weekend. Chairs are lined up along the street by fans in preparation for this evenings’ Hall of Fame parade down Main Street to the Hall of Fame.