Back in 1990, the New York Yankees signed a rather diminutive starting pitcher out of Panama named Mariano Rivera for $3,000. After pitching quite well in short bursts in the minor leagues for five years, Rivera was ultimately called up to the big leagues in 1995 and promptly disappointed to the tune of a 5.51 ERA. He was eventually transitioned to the bullpen, dominated as a setup man in 1996, became closer in 1997, and the magic continued from then on.
Twenty-seven years later, it’s safe to say the Yankees do not regret making that move.