The day has come once again.
On Thursday, just as he does every year on July 1, Bobby Bonilla collected a $1.19 million check from the Mets. He will do so every year on Bobby Bonilla Day until 2035, at which point the former slugger will be 72 years old.
The annual payday comes as a result of keen negotiating back in 2000. The Mets agreed to buy out the remaining money on Bonilla’s contract, but in yearly installments rather than a lump sum. Owner Fred Wilpon, who was investing his money with Bernie Madoff at the time and expecting big returns, accepted these terms as well as the 8% interest the Mets would pay on the buyout, which was initially $5.9 million. The Madoff account did not deliver as it turned out to be the biggest Ponzi scheme in history, but Bonilla’s checks still do.
That’s the story of how, beginning in 2011, Bonilla takes home nearly $1.2 million every year on the first day of July.
This year, the first under new ownership, the Mets teased a Bonilla-related announcement on social media.
Steve Cohen even joked about the embarrassing annual symbol of the previous regime’s financial mismanagement on Twitter shortly after buying the franchise away from the Wilpons.
“How about we have a Bobby Bonilla day every year. Hand him an oversized check and drive a lap around the stadium. Could be fun,” Cohen joked.
That idea fell through, apparently.
Instead it turned out to be a collaboration with Airbnb. Fans will have the opportunity to stay overnight at Citi Field and catch the games on July 28 and 29 from their own private suite.
Those who choose to embark on the $250 ballpark sleepover also get to throw out a ceremonial first pitch and rub elbows with Mr. and Mrs. Met, who are promised to pay a visit to the suite. They’ll have access to the Mets’ gym and take home a customized jersey and baseball signed by the team as well.
Booking opens on July 8. This is not a contest as guests will be chosen on a first come, first serve system.
Unfortunately, the fans who do book a night at Citi Field will not receive $1.19 million from the team, either today, tomorrow, or years in the future.
