One of the nation's most prominent figures amid the COVID-19 pandemic will usher in the beginning of the 2020 MLB season Thursday.
The Washington Nationals announced Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, will throw out the first pitch for Thursday's opener against the New York Yankees.
"Dr. Fauci has been a true champion for our country during the COVID-19 pandemic and throughout his distinguished career, so it is only fitting that we honor him as we kick off the 2020 season and defend our World Series championship title," the announcement read.