Happy Bobby Bonilla Day!

For those in the know, today marks a quirky day in sports history—Bobby Bonilla Day. The New York Mets will pay Bonilla $1.19 million for the 16th consecutive year.

It’s a bit of a strange story. After a disappointing .160 batting average over 60 games in 1999, the Mets bought out Bonilla’s contract in January 2000. They decided to keep the remaining $5.9 million and agreed to pay it with an 8 percent interest from 2011 through 2035.

Back when this deal was made, the Mets, under then-owner Fred Wilpon, were entangled in Bernie Madoff’s fraudulent schemes. They believed they’d hit it big with Madoff, but, well, that didn’t pan out, leaving them unable to cover the additional payments.

This situation has morphed into something of a running joke in recent times. When Steve Cohen took over as owner in November 2020, he humorously presented Bonilla with a giant check and suggested he take a ride around Citi Field every July 1st.

Additionally, not long after, the Mets had a promotion inviting fans to rent Airbnb spaces at Citi Field titled “Private Rooms Hosted by Bobby.”

Bonilla, who hails from the Bronx, has embraced the humor of it all. “It feels like a birthday celebration, right? That’s how significant it’s become,” he remarked during a phone call in 2024. “Most people probably don’t remember my actual birthday, but they definitely know when that delayed payment rolls in, which is pretty cool.”

Before this memorable contract with the Mets, Bonilla had a solid 14-season career playing for the White Sox, Pirates, Mets (in his first tenure), Orioles, Marlins, and Dodgers. He initially signed with the Mets in 1991, landing a five-year deal worth $29 million, which was a record at the time.

He achieved notable success, being a six-time All-Star, winning the World Series in 1997, and snagging three Silver Slugger Awards. Yet, these days, he’s mostly remembered for that unforgettable contract.