On Tuesday, baseball fans at Progressive Field in Cleveland experienced an event that was significant not just for the game itself but for what surrounded it. The Chicago Cubs faced off against the Cleveland Guardians, but the highlight for many came early in the form of a ceremonial first pitch thrown by none other than Colson Baker, better known as Machine Gun Kelly.
A Star on the Mound
Machine Gun Kelly, who turned 34 this year, took the field as part of the annual "MGK Day" celebration. The artist, whose real name is Colson Baker, stepped up to the mound, adding his name to a long list of celebrities who have thrown a ceremonial pitch at a major league game. Unlike some of his predecessors, whose first pitches veered spectacularly off course—50 Cent and Mariah Carey come to mind—Baker’s pitch added a twist by sailing into the stands, to the mixed delight and amusement of onlookers.
Progressive Field Buzz
Progressive Field was abuzz with excitement even before the gates opened. Machine Gun Kelly’s local roots run deep, and his energetic fanbase was well-represented in the stands. The first 10,000 attendees at the stadium were treated to a unique giveaway: a custom bag of coffee from Baker's own 27 Club Coffee. This coffee house, also named 27 Club Coffee, is a popular Cleveland spot that Baker owns, adding an extra layer of local significance to the event.
MGK Day
The game was a central part of "MGK Day," a celebration dedicated to the artist who has made a name for himself not just in music but also in the local community. Beyond the baseball and ceremonial pitches, the day highlighted the multifaceted nature of Machine Gun Kelly’s public persona, incorporating elements of his life and business ventures in Cleveland.
The Ceremonial Pitch: An Offbeat Tradition
Ceremonial first pitches at baseball games have long been a stage for memorable moments, both impressive and awkward. Icons like 50 Cent and Mariah Carey have delivered pitches that went wildly astray, becoming instant social media fodder. However, not all celebrity pitches are remembered for their failures. Gymnasts Simone Biles and Suni Lee, for example, have managed to incorporate elements of their exceptional athletic prowess into their ceremonial efforts, leaving lasting impressions on crowds.
Machine Gun Kelly’s pitch, heading into the stands, joined the pantheon of unforgettable first pitches, serving as a testament to his unpredictability and flair. While the pitch might not have set any records for accuracy, it surely captured the spirit of the day and the attention of the audience.
Chicago Cubs vs. Cleveland Guardians
As for the game itself, it became, in a sense, a secondary storyline to the broader celebration of "MGK Day." Fans of both the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Guardians were treated to an engaging game at one of baseball's classic venues, Progressive Field. Though specific game details might fade, the unique cultural exchange between music, community, and sport will linger in the memories of those in attendance.
Machine Gun Kelly’s involvement added a personal touch to the event, uniting his musical career and his entrepreneurial spirit under the banner of his hometown pride. It was a day that perfectly encapsulated the cross-section of sports and entertainment, wrapped in the vibrant atmosphere of Cleveland’s local culture.