Bobby Valentine, former manager of the New York Mets, recently shared a funny incident from 25 years ago during a Q&A session. A 9-year-old fan asked him about the time he wore a fake mustache and sunglasses in the dugout, which led to his ejection during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Valentine recalled how he used eye black stickers upside down as a mustache and Orel Hershiser helped him with the disguise.
The incident took place on June 9, 1999, when Valentine was ejected in the 12th inning of a tied game with the Blue Jays. He tried to find a way to stay connected with the team from the clubhouse, but Hershiser suggested he come back to the dugout in disguise. Hershiser, who had seen similar tactics during his time with the Dodgers, aided Valentine in blocking the umpire’s view. However, a camera in the dugout eventually exposed the disguise.
Despite the comical nature of the incident now, Valentine was fined and suspended for two games at the time. The Mets went through a rough patch in late May and early June of 1999, but managed to turn things around after the incident. They finished the regular season with an impressive record, making it to the NLCS.
Valentine mentioned that the story hasn’t been embellished much over the years, although there have been rumors of him having disguises prepared at every stadium, which he denied. He believes that the enduring appeal of the story lies in its ability to make people laugh, both then and now.
While the incident may have been a moment of levity in Valentine’s career, it also highlights the camaraderie and support between him and his team, especially with Hershiser. Even though it resulted in consequences for Valentine, the fond memories and laughter it brings to people, regardless of age, show that sometimes, a bit of humor can go a long way in sports and life.