1999: The Mets have a day off before starting another interleague series at Shea, this time against the Red Sox. Even so, no lack of activity and controversy, as it is revealed Bobby Bonilla refused to pinch hit during the previous series against Toronto, a move that earns him six days on ice. Steve Phillips says all options are on the table when it comes to Bonilla, including outright release, but nothing is imminent. Bobby Valentine, meanwhile, receives a two-game suspension and $5,000 fine for returning to the dugout incognito after being ejected in the finale of the Toronto series. The manager says he will appear the decision.

2000: A day after the Mets pounded the Yankees 12-2 in the Bronx, the home team returns the favor. The Mets jump out to an early lead on homers from Jay Payton and Robin Ventura, while also taking advantage of a few well-time Yankee errors. However, Bobby Jones implodes in the bottom of the sixth, allowing five Yankee runs. Pat Mahomes cedes five more, and when the dust settles, the Yanks complete a 13-5 drubbing.