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Opening Day 2024: Who is throwing the ceremonial first pitch?

The Southlake resident has been attending games since 1973 and became a season ticket holder in 1979. Hall of Fame catcher Ivan Rodriguez will catch the toss.

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers open the 2024 season against the Chicago cubs on Thursday, March 28 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

The Rangers and Cubs play a three-game series, with the second and third games coming on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31. 

Earlier this month, the Rangers unveiled their gold-trimmed jerseys that they'll presumably wear on Opening Day to commemorate their World Series title. This is a yearly thing that the reigning World Series champs will don on the first game of the season, or even over the first week or so. Fans were able to purchase items from their "Gold Collection" on March 21 at the Grand Slam Team Store at Globe Life Field.

The team will unveil the 2023 World Series Champions banner on March 28 as part of the opening day ceremonies. Here is a look at more pre-game festivities on Opening Day: 

Who is throwing the ceremonial first pitch on Texas Rangers Opening Day?

The first pitch of the 2024 season will pay homage to the fans of the Texas Rangers. Representing Texas Rangers fans for the ceremonial first pitch will be Michael Carter, who has been attending games since 1973 and became a season ticket holder in 1979. The Southlake, Texas resident, who has followed Major League Baseball since the 1950’s, has witnessed the majority of the Rangers’ biggest home game moments while being at the three Arlington ballparks with his three children and10 grandchildren.

Catching Carter’s toss will be National Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Ivan Rodriguez.

The ceremonial first pitch is scheduled for 6:28 p.m.

When does Globe Life Field open?

Globe Life Field parking lots will open at 2 p.m. and ballpark gates will open at 3:30 p.m. on Opening Day. The Rangers encourage fans to arrive early on opening day.

When does Texas Rangers batting practice start?

Rangers’ batting practice begins at 3:30 p.m. followed by the Cubs at 4:30 p.m., and the pregame ceremonies are scheduled to start at 6 p.m.

Honoring Hector Ortiz

Prior to Thursday’s game, the Rangers will observe a moment of silence in the memory of longtime coach Hector Ortiz, who passed away after a long illness on Feb. 28.

More Texas Rangers coverage:

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