In a ceremony stripped of its usual fanfare, the 2019 World Series champion Washington Nationals were honoured at the White House on Monday, but the event was overshadowed by a notable presidential no-show.
President Donald Trump, who had previously committed to throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a Nationals game, dramatically reversed course. Instead, the honour was bestowed upon Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a key figure in the nation's coronavirus response.
The President cited a scheduling conflict, stating he would be too busy to travel to the game. "We're going to have to make it another time," Mr Trump told the assembled crowd, suggesting a pitch might happen later in the season.
A Celebration Amidst a Pandemic
The traditional champions' visit was a far cry from those of years past. Gone was the massive crowd on the South Lawn; the event was held indoors with significantly limited attendance due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
President Trump used the platform to praise the team's resilience and their thrilling seven-game victory over the "very tough" Houston Astros. He also took a moment to congratulate the Nationals for their "incredible" season and their come-from-behind win.
Dr. Fauci Steps Up to the Plate
The spotlight then shifted to Dr. Fauci, a renowned immunologist and avid baseball fan. The 79-year-old is scheduled to throw the first pitch on July 23rd at the Nationals' season opener against the New York Yankees.
Dr. Fauci, a New York native, admitted his lifelong allegiance lies with the Yankees, creating a friendly rivalry with the reigning champions. He good-naturedly promised the Nationals players he would "try not to throw a gutter ball" when he takes the mound.
The move to have Dr. Fauci perform the ceremonial duty is seen by many as a symbolic gesture, aligning the national pastime with the scientific community leading the fight against the pandemic.
