NEW YORK (WFAN) – It’s inevitable. Eventually, “the immortal” Mariano Rivera will have to call it quits.

But after the 2012 season? So soon?

Rivera told the New York Post on Tuesday that hey, it’s a possibility.

“I don’t know what will happen,” he told the paper. “I have one year left. I might call it over. I will know more in spring training.”

Despite his age (he’ll turn 42 on Nov. 29) and mid-season swoon, the all-time saves leader had another excellent year in 2011. Rivera added 44 saves to his now-historic total and pitched to a minuscule 1.91 ERA.

Rivera also disclosed that he’s dealing with an issue affecting his vocal chords, and may have to undergo surgery to have it fixed.

“Every time I talk, it gets worse and worse,” he said. “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.”

Sounds like no big deal, you say? Don’t tell Mo that.

“When you are talking about surgery,” he said, “there is nothing simple.”

Do you think Mariano will retire after next season? Be heard in the comments below…