In May of 1996, David Cone underwent surgery on an aneurysm in his pitching shoulder. The operation was both career and life threatening, but he triumphantly returned on this date with a memorable performance.
Cone tossed seven no-hit innings against the Oakland A’s, throwing just 85 pitches and notching six strikeouts. Manager Joe Torre pulled him due to a pitch-count limit, and put in then setup man Mariano Rivera. Rivera would give up the game’s ONLY hit – an infield single by Jose Herrera in the bottom of the ninth inning with one out. The Yankees went on to win by a score of 5-0.
Cone would become a vital part of the Yankees playoff run which culminated with a World Series championship. His ability to pitch in big games and his leadership are things that Yankee fans won’t soon forget. On this date in 1996, Cone rose to the occasion and made it clear to everyone that he was back.
