The first pitch at a recent Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and Chicago White Sox game was thrown by Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The game was also the 19th annual Mormon Night with the Angels, Friday, July 15, 2016.
Before going on to the field, Elder Stevenson said, “I’m going off the mound. I’ve practiced a little bit with my sons.” Elder Stevenson threw the first pitch from the top of the mound at Angel Stadium, a distance of more than 60 feet from home plate.
Several Latter-day Saint youth from Orange County were recognized in the pre-game ceremonies for their outstanding achievements in academics, sports and leadership. Other Mormon youth participated throughout the evening as the “play ball” announcer, bat boy and the “steal’s third base” participant (during third inning the participant raced against the clock to run from left field, steal the actual third base and run back. The person also keeps third base).
Elder Stevenson took time during the game to greet members of the Church in attendance. Ken Hutton, an employee at Angel Stadium for the past 39 years and a Mormon, had an opportunity to meet him.
Mormon Night with the Angels is one of the largest and longest-running group nights with the Angels in Orange County. The Angels organization provided a fun family event for the Latter-day Saint community and gave a special welcome to all those from the Church in attendance at the game.
Angels pitcher Cam Bedrosian caught the ceremonial first pitch from Elder Gary E. Stevenson at the annual Mormon Night with the Los Angeles Angels.
Photos courtesy of Riz Espinili