Back in high school, Joe Burrow was known as a good basketball player, along with being one of the best football players coming out of Ohio that year. The 25-year-old quarterback also played baseball and will have the opportunity to show fans that his arm strength can translate to the diamond.
The Cincinnati Reds announced that Burrow will throw the ceremonial first pitch at their Opening Day game against the Cleveland Guardians Tuesday. Burrow won't be alone. Ja'Marr Chase and Bengals head coach Zac Taylor will also be a part of the festivities, with Chase presenting the NL Rookie of the Year award to Jonathan India and Taylor being the catcher for his star quarterback.
Owner Mike Brown responded to Burrow throwing the first pitch at Great American Ballpark by thanking the Reds for the kind gesture.
“It was a good gesture by the Reds. I personally appreciate it,” Bengals president Mike Brown told Geoff Hobson of the team website. “To me, that’s neat. I like the fact he’s been invited to do it."
However, Brown knows Burrow could get it done on the hardwood, where he was a standout at Athens HS, but is skeptical of his baseball prowess.
“I know he played basketball and was good at it. I don’t know his baseball background. I wish I did.”
Burrow did in fact play baseball, playing centerfield, shortstop and pitched.
“Cincinnati loves the tradition of Opening Day and what they have here is special,” Brown said. “Baseball is an integral part of this town with a rich history. The people that live here certainly enjoy the game and I’m one of them.”
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