The Yankees signed Dwight Gooden to a minor league contract in June 2000, hoping to revive his career. After poor performance with other teams, Gooden excelled upon being recalled, allowing three runs in 10.1 innings in his first two starts. In July against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, he faced the team that had earlier rejected him. Starting strong, he allowed an early run but ultimately secured a win, surrendering only one run and five hits over several innings, showcasing his enduring talent and resilience at the end of his career.
Despite the lopsided final score, it was actually the Devil Rays that struck first, as Gerald Williams led off the top of the first with a solo shot to left field.
After Chuck Knoblauch grounded out to short for the first out, Derek Jeter and Paul O'Neill each singled, and Bernie Williams walked to load the bases.
Gooden settled down after the first inning. He scattered five hits across his next five innings of work, and allowed just one batter to reach scoring position.
His final line was excellent: one run, five hits, and a win against the team that rejected him earlier in the season.
Collection
[
|
...
]