Robin Ventura Mets Career

By Jay Horwitz

Twenty-two years ago today, the Mets signed one of my favorite all-time Mets: Robin Ventura. I have plenty of memories of Robin as I look back on his career. He is probably most remembered for the infamous Grand Slam Single; yet, his Gold Glove plays at third base, combined with the contributions he made along with his 2001 teammates made around New York City after the 9–11 attacks, are equally why I hold him in such high regard.

The memory that still makes me laugh and brings a smile to my face is what he did at Yankee Stadium during a rain delay. Robin put on Mike Piazza’s uniform, added a fake mustache with tape, then imitated Piazza’s stance in the batter’s box. Robin then ran the bases sliding into second base and home plate. What made it so funny was that the tarp was on the field and soaked from the rain. Robin ultimately made a slip and slide out of the Yankee Stadium infield. The crowd in the stands, our dugout, where the real Mike Piazza watched on, roared in approval.

Thank you for being a great Met, Robin.