Mo Will Likely Need Vocal Cord Surgery

From Anthony McCarron:

The Yankees' quiet offseason got what they hope is only a minor jolt Tuesday when closer Mariano Rivera revealed that he might need surgery on his vocal cords. Rivera, who spoke barely above a whisper at a charity event, said they’ve been bothering him for about a month.

“Every time I talk, it gets worse and worse,” the Yankee closer said while hosting 42 children and their families for a Thanksgiving meal at his New Rochelle restaurant, 42 Clubhouse Grill. “I thought it was a little simple thing and I went to the doctor and she said they might have to do something. I think they have to scrape them.”

It’s unclear whether any procedure would affect Rivera’s preparations for spring training or the 2012 season. As Rivera put it, “When you’re talking about surgery, there’s no ‘simple.’” Still, it’s unlikely to be a major problem for the closer, who turns 42 next week - it’s not his seemingly ageless right arm, after all.

Brian Cashman, citing the HIPAA privacy rule, refused comment on the matter. Rivera said he is headed to the doctor on Monday for another examination, which could determine whether he needs surgery.