Adam Ottavino’s Instagram throwback to a childhood encounter with David Cone could make the reliever a New Yankees fan favorite.
On Jan. 25, Adam Ottavino officially signed with the New York Yankees, inking a three-year, $27 million deal. A few days later, he officially endeared himself to New York fans via an Instagram post oozing with Bombers nostalgia:
That’s right, the Yankees’ latest acquisition had a childhood run-in with Yankees legend David Cone. It makes perfect sense, since Ottavino grew up in Brooklyn.
Young Ottavino is fittingly decked out in pinstriped gear, but Cone clearly wanted nothing to do with a uniform on his day away from the field.
Now, if you’re planning to tweet at the YES Network broadcaster and see what’s up with that sweater, don’t worry about it. The internet already took care of that:
Man I loved that sweater
— David Cone (@dcone36) January 28, 2019
The five-time world champion then doubled down by posting a picture with another of his favorite sweaters:
10 year challenge-20 years ago pic.twitter.com/99kRiE1qIs
— David Cone (@dcone36) January 28, 2019
However, Cone’s questionable fashion choices shouldn’t distract from the most amazing part of Ottavino’s post. It’s pure awesomeness to see a young baseball fan grow up to play for his favorite team.
The 33-year-old began his MLB career with St. Louis, starting three games for the Cardinals in 2010. He then spent 2011 in the minors before sticking with Colorado as a reliever from 2012 to 2018.
Despite the distance, the righty maintained his New York connection by training in the City during offseasons.
In 2018, Ottavino dominated the National League, posting a 2.43 ERA and giving up just 41 hits in 77.2 innings. Oh, and he struck out a career-high 112 batters. Those numbers were enough to attract the Yankees’ attention when he became a free agent in the offseason.
Ottavino joins the back end of a bullpen that already features Aroldis Chapman, Dellin Betances, and Zach Britton. Also, Chad Green, Jonathan Holder, and Tommy Kahnle will be looking for innings.
Consequently, Aaron Boone might have the quickest hook ever in 2019.
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