Dancin' Homer

One night at Moe's Tavern, Homer tells the story of how he got (and then lost) his big break. His story begins during Nuclear Plant Employee, Spouses and No More than Three Children Night at the Springfield Isotopes baseball game at Springfield Stadium. At the game, Mr. Burns sits with Homer, taunting the Isotopes, which are expected to lose their 27th consecutive game, reportedly the longest losing streak in professional baseball. But when Homer fires up the crowd to the tune of "Baby Elephant Walk", the Isotopes win a game.

Because of this, Homer is made the Springfield Isotopes' mascot, "Dancin' Homer". Thanks to his enthusiasm, the Isotopes win more games. Eventually Homer is promoted by Antoine "Tex" O'Hara to the team in Capital City.

The Simpsons pack up their things, say goodbye to their friends and move to the big city. Homer is nervous about performing for a larger crowd and sharing the stage with the legendary Capital City Goofball. His first performance is a disaster. He is booed off the stage and promptly fired. Homer sadly finishes his story, only to find that the barflies are still pretty impressed.

[edit] Cultural references

The Capital City Goofball is a spoof of The Phillie Phanatic.
Mr. Burns walks down the stairs in the stadium just like Charlie Chaplin.
The song "Capital City" sounds like that of "New York, New York".
Homer's farewell speech to the fans ("I consider myself the luckiest mascot on the face of the earth.) references Lou Gehrig's farewell address and the film The Pride of the Yankees, based on the incident.