Nancy Reagan threw out the first pitch at the 1988 World Series
Over the years, Major League Baseball has invited many people to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before a World Series game. None were classier than Nancy Reagan.
On Sunday, the former first lady died at the age of 94, leaving behind a remarkable legacy built on strength and grace. And yes, that legacy does include a short but meaningful appearance on baseball’s biggest stage.
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Mrs. Reagan’s best-known project as first lady was the “Just Say No” campaign, which aimed to help kids and teens stay off drugs. To help promote the campaign, she appeared at Game 1 of the 1988 World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Oakland Athletics.That night would ultimately be remembered for Kirk Gibson’s unlikely heroics, as he delivered a walk-off home run against A’s closer Dennis Eckersly, but Mrs. Reagan made history too.
It is believed she’s the first and only first lady to throw out the first pitch before a World Series game, which is a pretty cool honor. Big enough, in fact, that the baseball and glove used that day are on display at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Los Angeles.
It’s also cool to look back and see Mrs. Reagan share a few minutes with the legendary Vin Scully. You will never find more class in one broadcast booth at one time than on the night of Oct. 15, 1988.
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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813
