As the Nationals take on the Cardinals in Game 3 of the NLCS, Washington has a chance to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series. It will also be the first NLCS game hosted in D.C.
Yet, even with all that excitement, one of the best moments on Monday came before the first inning.
Parker Staples, a young cancer patient and Nationals fan, threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the ballpark. On the receiving end was actor and pro wrestler Dave Bautista.
Parker Staples has been the best first pitch in @MLB since May 24.@DaveBautista // #STAYINTHEFIGHT pic.twitter.com/I1aX5mYHYL
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) October 15, 2019
If that name sounds familiar, it's because Staples and the Nats already share an awesome connection.
On May 24, Parker threw out the 1st pitch at #Nats Park.
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) October 14, 2019
On May 24, we turned our season around.
Coincidence? We think not.@WishMidAtlantic // #STAYINTHEFIGHT pic.twitter.com/YxjlfjsqX1
Back on May 24 of this season, Staples threw out the ceremonial first pitch as part of the Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic Foundation. Staples not only got to stand out the mount and toss a ball to home plate, but he also spent time greeting and talking to some of his favorite players.
Leaving a lasting impression on the Nationals, Staples may have something to do with the Nationals turnaround that got them to the NLCS. On that day, Washington picked up a win over the Marlins to put its record at 20-31. From that moment, the team went 63-38 to finish the regular season.
A brave, young Nationals fan who doubles as a good luck charm. Can't think of anyone better to throw out the first pitch for the most important game of the season.
MORE NATIONALS NEWS:
- He's Back:Â Robles returns to lineup
- Keep Rollin':Â Strasburg set to start Game 3
- Rewriting His Legacy:Â Scherzer is having a brilliant postseason