Conie was a terrific pitcher who was in the majors from 1986--2003. Among his many achievements include a Perfect Game, A Cy Young Award, five all-star appearances, five world series championships and two time major league strike out leader. Very impressive, also impressive is his 8-3 post season record.
Specifically with the Mets, he was 81-51 with a 3.13 ERA. His most magical year with the Mets was 1988 where he was an incredible 20--3. One of the most famous stories in Mets lore was that we came into the 1988 post season as huge favorites against the Dodgers who we (like I was on the team) did not lose to all year. We win Game 1 and then Cone who was writing a guest column for the Daily News decides to criticize Dodger pitchers Orel Hersheiser and Jay Howell.
Now if you have ever heard Conie speak, you know he is one of the smartest people you will ever meet, but that was not a smart move. Dodgers beat him up in Game 2 as he gave up five runs in two innings and though he pitched magnificently in Game 6, we still ended up losing the series. Not one our best moments.
On the bright side, the acquisition of Cone was one of the best trades in Mets history. The Mets acquired him in a trade with the Royals in exchange for Ed Hearns and Rick Anderson.
It was one of those rare times when you know a trade was a steal right when it happens. That statement was affirmed by Wally Backman in today's Mets Quote of the Day featuring David Cone.
Wally Backman, after the Mets traded for David Cone
thousands of quotes at www.baseballquotations.com
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