The Giants invited six legends from the franchise’s past to throw out the first pitch Wednesday before Game 1 of the World Series at San Francisco’s AT&T Park. Unfortunately, only five could make it.
Willie Mays, called the greatest player of all time in some circles, had to call in sick for the pre-game ceremony. This according to the Associated Press.
Orlando Cepeda, Monte Irvin, Juan Marichal, Willie McCovey and Gaylord Perry delivered their pitches and the Giants are out to a commanding lead in Game 1 against Texas, but it would have been nice for the 79-year-old Mays to make an appearance.
If the Giants stick around long enough in this seven-game Fall Classic, perhaps “The Say Hey Kid” will get the chance.
Bobby Thomson’s daughters, Megan Armstrong and Nancy Mitchell, are scheduled to throw out ceremonial pitches for Game 2. But the Giants probably don’t have anything planned for a potential Game 6 or 7 back in San Francisco.