Texas Rangers fan Michael Carter, who has been a season ticket holder for 49 years throws out the ceremonial pitch at Opening Day. Many fans have that dream of being on the mound and having that honor. NBC 5’s Vince Sims introduces us to a longtime fan throwing his hat in the ring.
Fans pack the pro shop at Globe Life Field grabbing gear for Rangers opening day.
“It’s going to be a great experience,” Rangers fan Ziegen Basquez said. “I’m going to get to see the players and watch them play.”
11-year-old Basquez said he's a long-time fan.
“Quite a while,” Basquez said.
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He still has quite a while to go to catch up with Robert Coronado.
“I’m from way back,” Rangers fan Robert Coronado said.
Coronado is 92 years young. He’s a retired Army Corporal Tank Commander and veteran of the Korean War. Baseball has always been important to him.
“It’s important that people understand baseball because it’s just like life,” Coronado said. “You get three shots you’re out. Life is almost the same.”
Coronado even taught young kids in his neighborhood about life and baseball to keep them out of trouble.
Baseball is something that can inspire people.
“It’s exciting,” Coronado said. “Makes you feel good inside. Your team is up there and you are rooting for them. I always knew that they could make it.”
Now Coronado is hoping he can make one of his dreams come true.
“If someone says come throw the first pitch I’m ready,” Coronado said.
He said he'd like to have the honor of throwing out a first pitch at a Rangers game.
“I think I could do it from the pitcher’s mound,” Coronado said.
But he said it's not just for him.
“I’d feel great because I feel like I’d be representing more than just me.”
