Among the ex-Bombers to grace the Yankee Stadium diamond for “Yogi Berra Day” Sunday, one ex-All Star and MVP looked conspicuously out of place.

Don Mattingly, the most “current” legend to take his place behind home plate for the pre-game ceremonies, would have looked equally at home on the Yankee bench as in his folding chair to the right of the stenceled number 8, painted on the field in honor of the Bombers' greatest living superstar.

Mattingly, like everyone else assembled, had no trouble singing the praises of the Yankees’ guest of honor.

“He’s just Yogi, I guess,” said Mattingly. “He treats you so well, with so much respect, whether you went 0-for-4 or 4-for-4, you’d see him in the lobby or whatever after the game, and he would be just very relaxed, very respectful. He’s just a great guy.”

Mattingly, who retired following the 1995 season (and his first and only playoff appearance), is as equally impressed with the current edition of the club.

“I don’t know what’s not to like [about the team],” said Mattingly. “I mean, after last season, it was just a dominating season. The regular season is just a time for preparing, getting ready for the playoffs.”

A lifelong Yankee, Mattingly understands and appreciates his role in Pinstripe history.

“It feels great to be a part of [the history],” said Mattingly. “This is a great organization and I’m really proud to be a part of, and being away for a while, there’s really no organization I’d rather play for.”

Berra, who was welcomed by, among others, his wife Carmen, ex-teammates Whitey Ford, Don Larsen and Phil Rizzuto and childhood friend Joe Garagiola, was presented with a trip to Italy, a 1998 World Series ring, a set of 10 rings from his 10 world championship seasons in Pinstripes and a $100,000 donation to his museum by the organization.

For Berra, the day held special meaning.

“It’s great to see all the guys I played with,” said Berra. “They didn’t tell me who was coming. It was great. I kind of broke down a little bit. There’s nothing like it.

“I know I’ve spent most of my life with [the organization],” said Berra, “and to be a Yankee, guys would give their right arm to be a Yankee.”

Berra’s status as Yankee legend does afford his family a few extraordinary perks.

“I’ve got five granddaughters,” said Berra, “and they all wanted to meet Jeter.”

By Mike Henry

Copyright 1999 by The New York Yankees and Medius Interactive.