That Time Muhammad Ali Delivered a First Pitch

Much like one of his legendary punches, you’re going to have a hard time getting out of the way of Muhammad Ali tributes.

Here comes another.

All-Star Games in any sport are, in theory, a showcase of the best of the best. The 2004 Midsummer Classic was no different…even if it featured the likes of Ken Harvey and Danny Kolb.

Played in Houston, the 2004 All-Star Game featured an impressive cast of characters, including, at the time, five future Hall of Famers and nearly ten more that should end up calling Cooperstown home, but they all paled in comparison to the guy who delivered the ceremonial first pitch.

Already ravaged by the effects of Parkinson’s Disease, Ali made his way to the mound prior to the game to deliver two game balls to be thrown out. Naturally, the Champ stopped to show off some of his moves.

The 2004 All-Star Game wasn’t the first time Ali would show up on the diamond and, thankfully, wasn’t his last.

In 2012, he would  deliver a ball prior to the Miami Marlins home opener at their then-brand new ballpark. Coincidentally (or not), it was Miami where many attributed the “birth” of the Ali legend back in 1964.

“He’s an important part of our organization,” Marlins president David Samson said. “He opened our new ballpark. His legacy will live forever.”

RIP Champ.