Report: Mariano Rivera Carted off the Field in Pregame Warmups

New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera was carted off the field during pregame warmups at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, reports MLB (via Twitter).

Although no information has been given, it seems as if Rivera really injured himself badly.

There's no reason for a cart to come onto the field if the player can walk off on his own, so Yankee fans should brace themselves for bad news.

In his absence, the Yankees will likely use either David Robertson or Rafael Soriano in his place.

Robertson would be the popular choice, as he's the man most likely to assume closer duties when Rivera retires.

He struck out exactly 100 batters in 66.2 innings of work in 2011 with a 1.08 ERA.

Early on this season, Robertson has yet to allow a run in 11 innings and has struck out 18.

Soriano could be turned to because of his experience as a closer.

Prior to coming over to the Yankees in 2011, Soriano closed out an American League-leading 45 games for the Rays in 2010. He recorded a 1.73 ERA en route to his only All-Star appearance.

The injury bug just keeps biting the Yankees.

Michael Pineda is out for the season, Nick Swisher will be out until next week with a leg injury, Brett Gardner is likely to return sometime next week from a shoulder injury, Eric Chavez was just placed on the seven-day concussion disabled list and now Rivera could miss time.

For the Yankees' sake, hopefully Rivera ends up being fine.