Just before the main event on the Citi Field last weekend that saw the New York Mets take on New York Yankees, something nice happened. Savannah Guthrie, who hosts the “TODAY” show, appeared to throw the initial pitch, and what seemed like a small sweet moment that the fans really loved happened.
She came onto the field with her face beaming like the sun. You were able to recognize that she was very happy and maybe a bit nervous as well – but in a good way, of course. Besides waving to the crowd and talking to the catcher, she also threw the pitch.
The crowd was with her all the way and when she finally threw it, it was not perfect but that was of no consequence. Everyone was clapping and smiling. It was just a very joyful, airy mood.
Why Savannah Guthrie Was at Citi Field
In order to have a familiar, friendly, and well-loved face on TV who shows up every morning, the Mets needed someone like Savannah to throw the first pitch. She is a constant presence on the “TODAY” show, and her energy is very positive.
She is not an athlete, but that is exactly what makes it so great. The main thing about these first pitches is the people celebrating, not how well they can throw the ball.
The presence of the crowd at the game was made more intimate, as well. Because of their familiarity with Guthrie as a person, folks feel a more intense connection to her. Fans happily received her as one of their own upon her arrival on the field.
The Mets vs. Yankees Game Was Already Headed for a Record
Moreover, in New York, Mets and Yankees games are never to be forgotten. It is a famous rivalry. Both teams’ fans are very enthusiastic and passionate, with plenty of them coming out wearing their team’s colors and cheering loudly.
But before the start of the game, the first pitch is a great way to just forget about all the noise and have a little fun.
Savannah’s pitch definitely played a huge role in creating that atmosphere. Everybody was just in that mood to laugh, take photos and share videos online. It showed that baseball is not only about stats and scores. It is also about enjoying yourself.
The Pitch Itself
So, what about the pitch? I must say, that wasn’t the best throw ever but that’s exactly why it was so good.
Savannah has never been a pitcher, and nobody even started to imagine that she would throw a strike. She just went for it, enjoyed herself, and was smiling all along. That’s what the crowd adored.
One could notice that she was still laughing after the pitch, and the applause of the fans was just as loud as it would be for a home run. It was more to do with the moment than the pitch.
Fans Reacted Online
Shortly after the pitch, fans started to share clips and comments on social networks. The majority of them used such phrases as:
- “I just couldn’t stop laughing while watching this!”
- “Savannah really seemed like she was enjoying the whole time there.”
- “She definitely gave us a moment to remember.”
Small gestures can go a long way, especially when they are done in a really good and intend to bring smiles to a lot of people. The internet, being the way that it is, usually would be quite harsh, but not this time; the people were just there, basking in the moment.
What Makes First Pitches Special
There are numerous people out there who might disregard the importance of ceremonial first pitches, but these small events hold a lot of meaning.
This is an opportunity for a team to acknowledge a person or group of people who have been impactful in the community or have simply brought happiness to others.
It does not matter in which category this person may fall a famous personality, a retired military man, a teacher, or an individual who has had a positive influence on the lives of others – issuing that initial pitch is a significant act of recognition. Savannah Guthrie was very thankful for the opportunity, and she thoroughly enjoyed herself.
A Fun Memory for Everyone
Just simple things like this are what turn baseball games from pure sports events to something more.
The game itself of course is important but the entire day at the ballpark is what people remember. The laughter, the shouting, the unexpected incidents such as when a radio host from a show in the morning makes an all-wobbly first pitch and never stops smiling.
Savannah Guthrie’s pitch may not get featured on a highlight reel, still it certainly contributed something special to that day at Citi Field.
Those who were present can definitely vouch for it. And for those who saw it online, it was merely a feel-good clip in the middle of a hectic day.
Conclusion
The thing is Savannah Guthrie was at the Mets-Yankees game, she threw the first pitch with a big smile on her face, and bonused fans with a fun moment to remember. The pitch didn’t have to be flawless.
Her mood and happiness were the ones that made it so good. A lot of negative and too serious stuff online has become the general trend in the world, and this was just a joyful, simple moment. And ensure so many times is exactly what we need.