06/28/2026
June 9, 1999
The New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine delivered one of the most ingenious, comical, and unforgettable acts of defiance in Major League history by sneaking back into the dugout wearing a full disguise after being ejected from the ballgame.
During the top of the 12th inning at Shea Stadium against the Toronto Blue Jays, the Mets catcher was called for a tie-breaking catcher's interference by home plate umpire Randy Marsh. Valentine bolted out to argue vehemently and was instantly ejected.
Determined to see the finish, the manager went down to the clubhouse, put on a black Mets hat, a different jacket, and a makeshift fake mustache made of black athletic tape. Minutes later, he slipped back into the dugout and stood behind the players to manage incognito, sparking hilarious commentary when the television broadcast caught him on camera. MLB officials didn't share the laugh and handed him a two-game suspension. An eternal snapshot of absolute rebellion and pure comedy on the diamond.