Red Sox: Trot Nixon to throw out first pitch in Game 1 of ALDS

Former outfielder Trot Nixon will throw out the first pitch before Game 1 of the ALDS between the Boston Red Sox and the winner of tonight’s Wild Card Game.

Trot Nixon is returning to Fenway Park. The former Boston Red Sox outfielder will be on hand to throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park.

Nixon also has an ulterior motive for attending the game, one that extends beyond the importance of a baseball game. Yes, even a playoff game. Nixon will be leading the efforts to collect money in support of Hurricane Florence relief efforts in North Carolina.

The Wilmington, NC native was drafted by the Red Sox out of New Hanover High School as the No. 7 overall pick in 1993. He spent 10 of his 12 career seasons in Boston, hitting .278 with a .845 OPS, 133 home runs and 523 RBI over 982 games wearing a Red Sox uniform.

Nixon was part of the curse-breaking 2004 World Series championship team that will forever be beloved in Boston. He was 5-for-14 (.357) with three doubles in the four-game sweep of the St. Louis Cardinals to help secure the franchise’s first title in 86 years.

While he was never an All-Star, Nixon was always a fan-favorite in the eyes of Red Sox Nation. His dirt dog style of play endeared him to fans throughout his tenure in Boston. Even when he wasn’t playing well, we knew he was playing hard. Trot was never one to worry about getting his jersey dirty, diving, sliding, and doing whatever it took to make a play.

It’s no surprise that a player who cared so much about the game is now showing care for those recovering from the storm in his home state.

The Red Sox finished the 2018 season with a major league-best 108 wins, setting a single-season franchise record and securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. They will host the winner of Wednesday’s Wild Card Game between the New York Yankees and Oakland A’s in the first two games of the best-of-five ALDS.

Hey, two teams that Nixon has experience beating in the playoffs! Maybe having the Dirt Dog around will bring the Red Sox some luck.