Don Mattingly Aims for Playoff Victory at Yankee Stadium

NEW YORK, NY — Nearly 30 years after hitting a pivotal homer in his career, Don Mattingly returns to Yankee Stadium hoping to help the Toronto Blue Jays clinch a playoff series win against the Yankees. This opportunity comes as both teams compete in Game 3 of the American League Division Series on Tuesday.

Mattingly, who serves as the bench coach for the Blue Jays, made headlines during Game 2 of the 1995 ALDS when he launched a go-ahead home run against Andy Benes. This series marked the Yankees’ return to the playoffs after a 14-year absence, and it was Mattingly’s only postseason action as a player.

Despite his storied past with the Yankees, Mattingly emphasized that he remains focused on the present. “We just want to take care of business,” he said, reflecting on his role with Toronto and the significance of the AL East rivalry.

Throughout his career, Mattingly has visited the Bronx as a coach and manager. He noted that the Marlins secured a playoff berth with a win at Yankee Stadium in 2020, which he found exciting. However, he expressed that this moment feels different. “This is the division, the AL East,” he stated. “It’s about us.”

Mattingly reminisced about his time with the Yankees, recalling fond memories from the ’95 postseason. He mentioned a RBI single and a double that contributed to the team’s success, culminating in the memorable homer in Game 2. “That was one of my favorite teams,” Mattingly noted.

Reflecting on the game against the Yankees, Mattingly said, “It looks a little bit the same,” while sharing his affection for the camaraderie he experienced in the ‘94 and ‘95 teams.

As the Blue Jays aim to advance in the postseason, the memories of Mattingly’s playing days serve as a reminder of the ups and downs of the sport. When asked about his home run, he shrugged off its significance for the current matchup, maintaining that his focus remains on orchestrating Toronto’s strategy.

“That was a long time ago,” he said, alluding to the past while concentrating on the challenges ahead.