Overview
The ceremonial first pitch is a pre-game ritual in which an invited guest throws a single pitch from the mound. Politicians, entertainers, athletes, and community leaders are among those who participate, adding pageantry to the game's opening. The tradition has deep roots in Japan: the first recorded ceremonial pitch dates to 1908, when statesman Shigenobu Okuma threw at a Waseda-Keio game. His pitch sailed wide, but the Waseda batter deliberately swung and missed as a gesture of respect - an anecdote that established the enduring custom of batters whiffing on ceremonial pitches. In NPB, the ceremonial first pitch also serves as a promotional tool. Inviting high-profile guests generates media coverage and boosts attendance. In recent years, idol group members and anime mascot characters have increasingly taken the mound, elevating the entertainment value. A guest who delivers a perfect strike earns a roar from the crowd, while a wild throw is met with laughter and warm applause. The ceremonial first pitch brings a brief moment of lightheartedness to the competitive world of professional baseball, making it a uniquely charming cultural tradition.