On Friday night, former Mets skipper Bobby Valentine slipped back into the dugout, sunglasses and a faux mustache in tow, just hours before his Hall of Fame induction. The 76‑year‑old tossed a ceremonial first pitch to a similarly disguised mascot, sparking cheers from a crowd decked in the same gag for fans who haven't seen.

That stunt echoed the infamous June 9, 1999 ejection, when Valentine, still a Mets manager, wore the same disguise after a catch‑interference argument with Mike Piazza. Three days later, GM Steve Phillips yanked three coaches, and Valentine warned the club: 'If we don't go 40‑15 in the next 55 games, you should fire me.'

The Mets seized the momentum, winning their next three contests and tying Toronto in the 14th inning when Valentine celebrated Rey Ordoñez’s game‑winning single. He was fined $5,000 and suspended two games, but the 27‑28 squad surged to a 40‑15 finish, clinching a League Championship Series berth and setting the stage for the 2000 World Series against the Yankees.

Valentine’s return to the dugout not only revived a legend’s legacy but also underscored a season that turned a 27‑28 start into a deep postseason run. His Hall of Fame induction, joined by teammate Lee Mazzilli, capped a career that ranks second in Mets wins and games managed, ending with a 2000 World Series appearance.