By: Austin Alexander – July 16, 2013

The term ‘First Class’ may have many definitions but one picture and one moment in time describe this expression better than any verbage that Webster’s Dictionary can attach to it.

If you watched the MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday night, then you were able to appreciate class personified by the greatest relief pitcher in baseball history. Set aside his 638 career saves, plus his 42 saves in the post-season, five titles and the fact that he will be the final player to ever wear Jackie Robinson’s number… look at the genuine respect that his peers have for him.

Rivera has managed to cut up hitters for 19 years in the Big Apple without public scrutiny or scandal. He is a family man and a tremendous man of God. He is a good teammate and ultimate professional.

I have never been a Yankee fan, and generally pull for Rivera to blow saves. But like all of the players in each dugout that spend the other 364 days of the year trying to defeat him, I applauded, albeit from my recliner! Enter Sandman blaring on the PA, no one else on the field, just one man in the microscope of the entire baseball universe, powerful!

I watched that moment last night with my oldest son. Perhaps this hits home, my seven-year old turned to me and said, “Dad, is this one of those moments that I will tell my son about one day?” So profound and so true. I was honored to witness it and as a baseball fan, wow, what a classy guy and moment to remember.

The guy is so insanely humble. Talented, durable, successful, no doubt. But to have such a decorated resume and remain so classy and humble… It’s a lesson we could all learn from.

DP Note: The picture atop this article is from the Tim Carroll collection, for much more info on his work, please do yourself a favor and visit this website: http://www.timcarrollart.com/entersandman.htm