Machine Gun Kelly’s Wild Pitch Highlights Annual MGK Day at Progressive Field
Tuesday’s game at Progressive Field saw the Chicago Cubs go head-to-head with the Cleveland Guardians, but the spotlight was arguably stolen by none other than Machine Gun Kelly, known offstage as Colson Baker. As part of the annual “MGK Day,” the multi-talented artist was honored with the ceremonial first pitch, a moment that will continue to spark conversations among fans for years to come.
Machine Gun Kelly, who turned 34 this year, commands an illustrious presence far beyond his musical talents. One of the perks of attending the game was the opportunity to secure a custom 27 Club Coffee bag, available for the first 10,000 attendees. Owned by Baker himself, the 27 Club Coffee in Cleveland has become a fan favorite, intertwining the musician’s passion for both music and the vibrant Cleveland community.
The game was punctuated by Baker’s attempt at a ceremonial pitch, which notoriously went into the stands rather than toward the catcher. The incident immediately drew comparisons to other iconic but wild ceremonial first pitches in baseball history, a list topped by figures like 50 Cent and Mariah Carey. Despite what some may call his less-than-accurate throw, Machine Gun Kelly’s stage presence and charisma naturally turned the moment into an entertaining spectacle.
The atmosphere of the event was nothing short of festive. Progressive Field was buzzing with excitement, not just because of the ongoing game but due to the festive aura brought in by the celebrity presence and the annual MGK Day celebrations. Fans donned their MGK memorabilia, and the custom 27 Club Coffee bags became a cherished keepsake from the evening.
Machine Gun Kelly’s pitch may have veered off in an unexpected direction, but it was far from a rare mishap in the history of ceremonial first pitches. Past participants have had their own memorable misadventures—each adding a layer of amusement to the pre-game rituals. Athletic icons such as gymnasts Simone Biles and Suni Lee, for instance, have managed to enrapture the audience by integrating their gymnastic prowess into their pitches. Their creative spins on the tradition highlight the wonderful unpredictability and personal flair that different celebrities bring to ceremonial pitches.
Throughout the event, Baker’s presence was a reminder of his multifaceted persona. Beyond just entertaining, he’s an entrepreneur, actively engaged in his projects like the 27 Club Coffee. It symbolizes his attachment to Cleveland, where he continues to contribute to the local economy and cultural scene. The coffee house not only reflects his personal entrepreneurship but it stands as a place for fans and the community to gather, creating a lasting impact on the city.
The game itself was an engaging contest between the Cubs and the Guardians, set against a backdrop of music, coffee, and the undeniable star power of Machine Gun Kelly. Fans left Progressive Field with not just memories of the game but a sense of participation in a larger event that blends the love for sports, music, and community.
Ultimately, the essence of Tuesday’s game extended beyond the scorecards. Machine Gun Kelly’s wild ceremonial pitch served as a reminder that sports have a unique way of bringing various aspects of culture together. Events like MGK Day strengthen the bond between fans and their idols, illustrating how sports venues can be a stage for more than just athletic competition—they’re arenas for shared experiences, memories, and, occasionally, unexpected antics that keep fans talking long after the game is over.