Tampa Bay Lightning coach Guy Boucher was invited to throw out the first pitch before the Rays-Blue Jays game on Friday, and he delivered quite the unique performance. The hockey coach shot the ball to the catcher using a stick.
Wearing jersey No. 7, Boucher delivered a perfect strike to catcher Stephen Vogt, who also had a hockey stick and goalie-style mask. Vogt even guarded home plate like a goalie.
The Lightning coach was there to celebrate the hockey team’s 20th anniversary. As part of Lightning night, Rays employees even wore buttons on their uniforms that said “Go Bolts.”
Boucher later spoke to The Tampa Tribune and expressed optimism about the NHL lockout ending.
“I think there is good will on both sides and I’m sure they will find a way,” said Boucher. “Hopefully it’s quick, and if it’s quick, we haven’t lost much right now. . . . I have faith in the players and the owners that they will find a way.”
Boucher shooting the first pitch at the Rays game continued the strong relationship between the teams. Last year, some Lightning players took batting practice with the Rays. Before the game, Rays manager Joe Maddon showed his support of the Lightning by wearing their cap:
We’ve seen plenty of folks from other sports throw out the first pitch at baseball games, but none have done it quite as well as Boucher. Well done Guy, well done.
Video via Puck Daddy
Photo via Jonathan Gantt
