Revisiting perfection

Yesterday, David Cone was on hand to throw out the game’s first pitch—a move meant to commemorate his perfect game from July 18, 1999.

Cone’s perfect game was a particularly special moment for me. Not only was it a great accomplishment for a beloved Yankee, in addition, I was also lucky enough to be at Yankee Stadium on that faithful day 10 years ago. I was 13 years old at the time and was with my entire family as Cone pitched his way to perfection and etched his name into baseball history. I remember the final outs and the climactic buildup more than anything, along with the heat, of course (it was over 90 degrees in the Bronx). It’s painful to watch a perfect game unfold simply because of its inherently suspenseful nature, but it’s also painful when you’re sweating profusely throughout and have to deal with a rain delay, as well (good thing Cone made it quick).

With that said, here’s the beautiful box from that memorable summer afternoon.