WASHINGTON — The Nationals have announced that Rep. John Lewis will throw the ceremonial first pitch on Sunday as part of the team’s annual Black Heritage Day.
Lewis, a civil rights icon who’s represented Georgia’s 5th Congressional District since 1987, is among those participating in the pregame ceremony honoring African-Americans’ contributions to the game of baseball and the community. The Nationals will also air videos during the game highlighting African-American baseball greats.
This year, Black Heritage Day falls on the 71st anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s Major League Baseball debut. Every year since 2009, MLB has commemorated the milestone by having players and on-field personnel across the league wear Robinson’s No. 42 jersey.
Members from the Mamie Johnson Little League, Jackie Robinson Foundation and Howard University will also participate in the pregame ceremony. Lt. Gen. Leslie Smith, the Army’s inspector general, will perform the game ball delivery.
D.C. sports fan favorite D.C. Washington will sing the national anthem and “God Bless America.”
