Tuesday's game at Progressive Field featured an interesting crossover between sports and entertainment as the Chicago Cubs faced off against the Cleveland Guardians. The game unfolded under the banner of the annual "MGK Day," an event that pays homage to Cleveland's own rap star, Machine Gun Kelly, whose real name is Colson Baker. Known for hits that span rap and rock genres, the 34-year-old artist brought a unique flair to the baseball diamond.
The Pitch Heard 'Round the Stadium
One of the most talked-about moments of the evening wasn’t a play on the field but a pitch from the sidelines. Colson Baker, better known as Machine Gun Kelly, took to the mound for the ceremonial first pitch. Much to the amusement of fans and perhaps to MGK's chagrin, the ball ended up soaring into the stands rather than into the catcher’s mitt. It was an unforgettable blunder that quickly drew comparisons to other infamous ceremonial pitches.
Icons like 50 Cent and Mariah Carey are often remembered for their less-than-stellar first pitches. Machine Gun Kelly's wild pitch joins that legacy, bringing a moment of light-heartedness to the game. In contrast, gymnasts such as Simone Biles and Suni Lee have incorporated elements of their athletic prowess into their ceremonial pitches, earning accolades for their skill.
27 Club Coffee Giveaway
The first 10,000 fans at Progressive Field were treated to a special giveaway. Machine Gun Kelly, who owns a coffee house in Cleveland named 27 Club Coffee, provided custom 27 Club Coffee bags for the early birds. This added a unique, local touch to the event and further solidified MGK's connection to his hometown.
The coffee house, known for its edgy aesthetic and quality brews, draws inspiration from the infamous "27 Club"—a list of iconic musicians who tragically passed away at the age of 27. The custom coffee bag giveaway was a hit, blending the allure of music history with a love for high-quality coffee.
An Evening of Sports and Entertainment
While the ceremonial pitch might have stolen the spotlight momentarily, the game itself was a classic showdown between two storied franchises. Progressive Field buzzed with excitement as fans enjoyed an evening that fused their love for baseball with an appreciation for local music and culture. This harmonious blend of sports and entertainment exemplified the unique spirit of Cleveland.
As Machine Gun Kelly took in the game from the stands after his memorable pitch, the focus shifted back to the players. Yet, the impact of his pitch lingered, adding another chapter to the quirky and unexpected moments that make baseball games more than just a sporting event.
This year's "MGK Day" exemplified the strong connection between the city of Cleveland and its local heroes, whether they shine on the field or the stage. As the evening came to a close, fans left with a smile, a memorable giveaway, and stories to tell about the time Machine Gun Kelly added his name to the list of wild ceremonial first pitches.