40th Anniversary of Doc’s Debut

By Jay Horwitz

A week before we retire his Number 16, I wanted to reflect back on Dwight’s first major league start, 40 years ago today in the Astrodome.

I remember Doc always didn’t make it to the mound that day. He was so nervous before his Major League debut that he didn’t wait for the team bus and walked to the Dome. The only problem was that he didn’t have a pass and because he looked so young (19) that the guard wouldn’t let him into the park He called down to our clubhouse and our trainer Steve Garland verified that Dwight was our starting pitcher.

He pitched superbly against Houston, winning, 3–2. In five innings, he gave up three hits, with one earned run, two walks and five strikeouts. What made things even more special was that we had flown Dwight’s parents, Ella and Dan, to the game and they were there for the festivities.

Doc would go on to win 156 more games with the Mets, including 16 more in 1984 to win the Rookie of The Year and 24 in 1985 when he won the CY Young and captured pitching’s triple crown.

Next Sunday will be a great afternoon. Many of Dwight’s friends, family and 1986 teammates will be there to honor him. A Doc start at Shea in the 1980’s was a happening , much more than a game. None of us new what historic feat he might perform.

I was fortunate to be there for all of Doc’s Mets games and I am proud to have been his friend for more than four decades.

One thing is for sure. When we unveil his number on the roof at Citi, I will be cheering with the rest of you guys.