Baldwin's Steve Dillon, 79, a big hit at Mets' Old-Timers' Day
Former Mets pitcher Steve Dillon throws during Old-Timer’s Day at Citi Field on Saturday. Credit: Newsday/J. Conrad Williams Jr.
Everyone wanted their moment.
A quick word. A selfie. An autograph.
Steve Dillon was more than happy to oblige. Because on this day he was given an opportunity to be celebrated by the Mets and their fans.
Even if it was a little overwhelming.
“I’ve done this before, [just] not at this [level],” Dillon told Newsday of signing autographs and being asked for photos. “[It was] easier to get on the mound.”
Dillon, a 79-year-old Baldwin resident, was one of the 65 former players and managers who participated in the Mets’ Old-Timers Day, the franchise’s first since 1994. As part of the festivities, which included the announcement of the retirement of Willie Mays’ No. 24, Dillon was able to take the mound in the alumni game, which was something he was hoping to do.
“It brought back memories,” said Dillon, who had prepared for the chance to pitch by throwing to members of the racquetball club he is a member of. “Sixty feet, six inches, I’ve done it in workouts. I wanted to have a good showing for myself.”
More than that, it was an opportunity to catch up with former teammates – Ed Kranepool, for one – as well as meet other retired Mets and members of the current iteration. Dillon said Jacob de Grom and Francisco Lindor “both congratulated me,” and he had the opportunity to talk to Mike Piazza during a luncheon the team held for the alumni.
“A dream come true,” Dillon said. “Couldn’t have asked for a better day. All the players took me under their wing.”
And for a former player, the chance to take the field one last time was the pinnacle of his baseball career.
“Absolutely,” said Dillon, who pitched in three games for the 1963 and ’64 Mets. “Who knows if they’ll have another one?”
