Jayden Daniels’ first pitch at Nationals Park on Sunday was just a bit outside — but Commanders fans should rest easy knowing the rookie quarterback’s passing prowess is more impressive on the gridiron.
Before the Washington Nationals took on the Atlanta Braves, the hometown team welcomed the Commanders’ potential quarterback of the future for the ceremonial first pitch, eliciting cheers from fans.
Winding up from the mound, the LSU product’s pitch landed in the dirt of the left-handed batter’s box. Daniels shook hands with outfielder Lane Thomas, who fielded the pitch, before sharing a chest bump with the Commanders’ mascot, Major Tuddy.
The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner also signed autographs for a handful of young fans before the game began.
The visit to Nationals Park was the latest excursion for the 23-year-old during a busy sports weekend around the D.C. area.
On Saturday, Daniels visited Commanders Field to watch the U.S. soccer team square off against Colombia in a friendly. The Americans lost 5-1, but photos from the sideline showed the rookie quarterback smiling and speaking with soccer coach Gregg Berhalter before the match.
Daniels and the rest of the Commanders are expected to return to the team’s Ashburn practice facility on Tuesday for a mandatory minicamp.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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