As the Yankees came into the stretch run of the 2000 season, their minds had started to shift toward the ultimate goal. Though they were still right in a heated playoff race, they had stabilized after some midseason struggles and had a solid grip on a playoff spot, and it was just prudent management to start thinking about how the team would construct its roster come October as they pushed for a third-straight World Series title.

Of utmost importance was figuring out a starting rotation that featured Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte, and then a whole lot of veterans dealing with injuries and slumps. Twenty-five years ago today, David Cone tried to slip his name into the mix.

August 15: Yankees 10, Rangers 2 (box score)

Record: 65-50 (1st in AL East, 5.0 games ahead)

Cone’s struggles had be

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