Mike Piazza returns to Shea Stadium
I love Mike Piazza. I was there at his first game in May 1998. I was there when he capped off a 10-run rally to beat the Braves 11-8 in July 2000. I was there when he played his last game as a Met last October.
I was there last night to welcome him back to Shea Stadium.
It’s weird to see him in anything but a Mets uniform. Sure, he was a Dodger for a long time before he became a Met but so much of his career was defined as a Met.
The fans eagerly wait for Mike to take his cuts in batting practice.
A bunch of Padres wait to see what the response will be like.
Big Mike feigns a bunt.
Mike readies himself for one of his trademark swings.
Mike takes a walk back to the visiting dugout to prepare for the game…
…but not before he signs a few autographs for his adoring fans.
That’s just weird – he’s not even #31 anymore.
Mike comes out of the bullpen to a standing ovation…
…just in time to see the video tribute to him.
Indeed, thanks for the memories, Mike.