In 1976, Steinbrenner hired legendary Yankee catcher Yogi Berra to help coach the boys in pinstripes. One of the most beloved Yankees of all time, Berra had previously served a successful (if uneven) term as manager of the New York Mets. Steinbrenner named Berra the Yankees' manager before the 1984 season. After Steinbrenner assured Berra he would not be fired if he returned for the 1985 season, Berra signed on for another year. Yet after only 16 games, Steinbrenner fired Yogi. For nearly 15 years, the offended manager refused to enter Yankee Stadium — until July 18, 1999, when the Yankees hosted "Yogi Berra Day." Berra caught the opening pitch, and David Cone went on to throw a perfect game. Steinbrenner and Berra put their feud aside, and Berra appeared at the 2008 All-Star Game in Yankee Stadium.