Tuesday's game at Progressive Field brought together baseball and entertainment as the Chicago Cubs faced off against the Cleveland Guardians. This particular game was not just another fixture in the MLB calendar, as it celebrated the annual "MGK Day," a nod to renowned artist Machine Gun Kelly, whose real name is Colson Baker.
The atmosphere at Progressive Field was electric. Anticipation had been building since the announcement that the first 10,000 attendees would receive a custom 27 Club Coffee bag, a gesture that underscores Baker's connection to the city; he owns the 27 Club Coffee house in Cleveland.
A Memorable First Pitch
Machine Gun Kelly had the honor of throwing the ceremonial first pitch—a tradition that often features a mix of thrilling and occasionally humorous moments. Adorned in his distinctive style, Baker approached the mound. The excitement was palpable. However, this was no ordinary pitch; it went soaring into the stands rather than across home plate, much to the amusement of the crowd. While some might have been caught off guard, it added a memorable twist to the day's events.
Such moments in baseball history are far from rare. Icons like 50 Cent and Mariah Carey have also left their mark with similarly wild ceremonial pitches. Gymnasts Simone Biles and Suni Lee, on the other hand, have incorporated elements of their athletic prowess into their ceremonial pitches, showcasing a flair that transcends their primary sports.
Celebrating 27 Club Coffee
Machine Gun Kelly's involvement in the event extends beyond the pitch. His coffee house, 27 Club Coffee, has garnered a loyal following, and the custom coffee bags given to fans were a delightful touch. It's a testament to Baker's influence and the unique brand he has built in his hometown of Cleveland.
The game itself became a part of a broader celebration of both sports and music, highlighting Baker’s transformation from a local artist into an international star. At 34 years old, Machine Gun Kelly continues to reinvent himself, seamlessly blending his music career with entrepreneurial ventures like 27 Club Coffee.
Tuesday's game and the surrounding festivities exemplified the intersection of pop culture and sports. Fans of both baseball and Machine Gun Kelly were treated to a day that celebrated community, entertainment, and an athlete-turned-entrepreneur's impact on his city. As Progressive Field returned to its regular schedule, those in attendance left with a unique experience—and for the fortunate initial attendees, a piece of Cleveland's cultural tapestry in the form of a custom coffee bag.