Mo hardware: Selig to honor Rivera before Game 2

BOSTON -- Mariano Rivera, who was known as much for his exemplary citizenship as the fact that he retired at the end of this season as baseball's all-time saves leader, will be honored Thursday night before Game 2 of the World Series (7:30 p.m. ET on FOX, 8:07 first pitch) when he's presented with the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award.

Commissioner Bud Selig will present Rivera with the award during pregame ceremonies at Fenway Park. The former Yankees closer will be joined by his wife and three sons.

This is the first time that the award, which was created to recognize contributions of historical significance in Major League Baseball, has been given out since Ken Griffey Jr. received it in 2011.

Rivera spent his entire career in a Yankees uniform. During his final season, he received an extraordinary outpouring of support from teammates and opponents alike.