Tuesday night saw an electrifying evening at Progressive Field as the Chicago Cubs faced off against the Cleveland Guardians. It was more than just an ordinary game—this was an event intertwined with local culture, sports, and a touch of celebrity charm.
A Game to Remember
The clash between the Cubs and the Guardians was set against the backdrop of the annual “MGK Day,” a celebration dedicated to the multifaceted artist Machine Gun Kelly, known off-stage as Colson Baker. The musician, famous for his boundary-pushing music and dynamic persona, brought a unique flavor to the stadium that night.
The event kicked off with the customary ceremonial first pitch, an occasion that often blends celebrity star power with amusing or awe-inspiring moments. Keeping this tradition alive, Machine Gun Kelly himself took to the mound. However, unlike the flawless mechanical pitching of professionals, his pitch delivered an unexpected twist—it sailed into the stands, creating an instant buzz and drawing comparisons to other notable wild ceremonial pitches from icons 50 Cent and Mariah Carey.
Special Perks and Local Flavor
Progressive Field was packed with a crowd ready to experience more than just a baseball game. Early arriving fans—10,000 to be exact—were treated to a custom 27 Club Coffee bag, a special perk from Machine Gun Kelly’s own coffee house, 27 Club Coffee, based in Cleveland. This gesture not only added to the festive atmosphere but also highlighted Machine Gun Kelly’s deep-rooted connection to the city and its community.
The combination of music, sports, and local business painted a vivid picture of Cleveland’s vibrant cultural landscape. The intersection of these elements was not lost on the attendees as they enjoyed their custom coffee bags during the game, embodying the spirit of the event that celebrated both local and national interests.
Stars and Sports
Machine Gun Kelly's involvement in the event brought to mind other celebrities who have injected flair into first pitches, such as gymnasts Simone Biles and Suni Lee. These athletes have previously integrated elements of their gymnastic prowess into their pitches, blending their sports talents with the art of baseball. While Baker’s pitch might not have mirrored their athletic finesse, it certainly added its own unique chapter to the lore of ceremonial first pitches.
A Lasting Impression
Despite the unexpected trajectory of his pitch, Machine Gun Kelly’s presence and engagement with the fans underscored the evening's significance. At 34 years old, Baker continues to make an impact both within and outside the music industry. His contributions to events like "MGK Day" and ventures such as 27 Club Coffee demonstrate a versatility that extends well beyond his alter ego.
The game itself was a thrilling contest, but it was the added layer of “MGK Day” that made it truly memorable.
This blend of sports, music, and community spirit turned an ordinary Tuesday game into a special event, reflecting a city’s pride and cultural richness, all under the lights of Progressive Field.