The 2000 New York Mets opened their season far from the friendly confines of Shea Stadium. Across at least one ocean and a continent depending on which direction you’d choose to take, the Mets began their 2000 season in Japan against the Chicago Cubs.
On March 29, 2000, at the Tokyo Dome in the heart of Japan, these two teams ushered in a new season of baseball.
Mike Hampton got things started in this two-game series. Unfortunately, the lefty’s time with the Mets didn’t get off to a brilliant beginning.
Hampton walked the leadoff hitter, Eric Young, who then stole second base.