In a move that has baseball fans and social media buzzing, the New York Mets have officially announced one of the most anticipated promotions of the 2026 season: Bobby Valentine Disguise Night. Set for May 29 at Citi Field, the event will commemorate one of the most hilarious and iconic moments in MLB history—former manager Bobby Valentine’s infamous 1999 dugout return in disguise. The team revealed that the first 15,000 fans in attendance will receive a free pair of black sunglasses complete with an attached fake mustache, perfectly mimicking the makeshift camouflage Valentine donned over two decades ago.
The Legend of the Mustache Returns to Queens
The promotion pays homage to the unforgettable events of June 9, 1999, during a marathon game against the Toronto Blue Jays. After being ejected in the 12th inning for arguing a catcher's interference call, Valentine refused to call it a night. Instead of retreating to the clubhouse as rules required, he slapped on a pair of dark sunglasses and fashioned a fake mustache out of eye black stickers, sneaking back into the dugout to manage the rest of the game.
While the disguise didn’t fool the umpires—or the television cameras that caught him lurking in the corner—it instantly became a piece of baseball folklore. Now, the Mets are embracing the humor of that night, inviting thousands of fans to channel their inner "Bobby V" as the team takes on the Miami Marlins.
Bobby Valentine Reacts: 'I Love It!'
The man of the hour has already given the promotion his stamp of approval. Following the announcement, Valentine expressed his excitement in a text to the Associated Press, writing, "I love it! I'll be there. Can't wait."
Valentine, who managed the Mets from 1996 to 2002 and led them to the 2000 World Series, has long embraced the humor of the incident. In recent years, he has even poked fun at himself, showing up to Old Timers' Day events sporting the same incognito look. His confirmed attendance for the May 29 game adds an extra layer of excitement, with fans hoping for a dugout cameo or a ceremonial first pitch in full costume.
Viral Reaction from Mets Fans
Social media erupted immediately after the news broke, with Mets viral news accounts and baseball fans praising the organization for leaning into its colorful history. "This is the greatest shenanigan to ever happen in baseball, and I need that glasses kit immediately," one user posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another fan on Reddit called it "the ultimate piece of Mets memorabilia," predicting that the lines at Citi Field would start forming hours before first pitch.
A Look Back at the 1999 Incident
For younger fans who might not remember the original moment, the context is pure baseball comedy. The Mets were locked in a tense 3-3 tie in the 12th inning when Valentine was tossed by umpire Randy Marsh. The stakes were high, and Valentine wasn't ready to abandon his squad.
"I wasn't fooling anyone with that disguise," Valentine later admitted in interviews. "If Randy Marsh saw it, I believe he would have laughed."
Despite the eventual $5,000 fine and two-game suspension handed down by the league, the stunt may have worked. The Mets went on to win the game 4-3 in the 14th inning on a walk-off hit by Rey Ordoñez, sparking a rally that would eventually help them reach the postseason that year. The "rally mustache" has been a cult symbol for the franchise ever since.
How to Get Your Bobby Valentine Disguise
Fans looking to secure their own fake mustache giveaway kit should plan to arrive early. The promotion is limited to the first 15,000 guests entering the widespread gates of Citi Field. Given the viral nature of the announcement and the popularity of unique Citi Field promotions, ticket demand is expected to spike for the Thursday night matchup against Miami.
This lighthearted event signals a continued effort by the Mets organization to connect with fans through nostalgia and fun, celebrating not just the championships, but the unique personalities that have made the team a beloved New York institution.
