With 284 wins, placing him fourth all-time, and 19 playoff appearances, tying for first all-time, Reid’s leadership prowess is unmatched. As he takes the mound for the ceremonial first pitch, Reid’s presence adds a touch of prestige to the MLB season opener as well.

His involvement not only signifies the strong bond between the two franchises but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. This announcement follows in the footsteps of past collaborations between the Royals and Chiefs, including memorable ceremonial first pitches by star players Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes.

Mahomes and Kelce tried the mound before coach Andy Reid

The journey of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce from the gridiron to the mound has an interesting flashback with ceremonial first pitches at Kansas City Royals games. This marks an interesting intersection of their football stardom and their shared love for baseball.

In 2018, Mahomes, the rising star QB of the Kansas City Chiefs, took to the pitcher’s mound at Kauffman Stadium to deliver the inaugural first pitch before a Royals game against the New York Yankees. As the son of former MLB pitcher Pat Mahomes Sr, Patrick’s connection to baseball runs deep, and his pitch that night expressed a return to his roots. Despite his focus on football, Mahomes showcased his pitching ability, reminiscent of his days as a sought-after baseball prospect.

Travis Kelce, the tight end for the Chiefs, also had his moment on the baseball field when he threw out the first pitch at a Royals opener last year. Kelce’s pitch, however, garnered trolls for its unconventional bounce before reaching home plate during a Cleveland Guardians game. Despite the playful mishap, Kelce’s love for baseball was evident, reflecting his childhood spent playing the game with enthusiasm and fun.

Beyond their memorable first pitches, Mahomes and Kelce share a history intertwined with baseball. Mahomes, raised in a baseball-centric environment due to his father’s MLB career, excelled as a multi-sport athlete in high school, showcasing his talents on both the football field and the baseball diamond. Despite being drafted by the MLB, Mahomes ultimately chose to pursue football, but his affinity for baseball remains a defining aspect of his identity.

Read More: Pro MLB Players Asked Mom Randi About Patrick Mahomes’ Unwavering Love for Baseball in His Childhood

Similarly, Kelce’s journey from childhood baseball player to NFL star reflects his enduring passion for the sport. His playful demeanor and infectious energy on the football field are reminiscent of his days spent playing baseball, where his love for the game shone brightly. Through their first pitches and shared love for baseball, Mahomes, Kelce, and Andy Reid embody the spirit of camaraderie and community that defines sports in Kansas City.

Read More: “Mom… Threw Me Under the Bus”: Travis Kelce Blames His Mother for His Horrible Pitch at the Cleveland Guardians Opener With an Unusual Reason