It was opening day in the MLB on Thursday as teams from across the league kicked off their respective campaigns.
The Chicago White Sox opened their season with a home matchup at Rate Field against the Los Angeles Angels. It was a special occasion for the White Sox as they kicked off what they're hoping will be a promising season ahead.
As such, the team decided to bring in a very special guest for the ceremonial first pitch. This came in the form of NBA legend Derrick Rose, who is widely considered a sports icon in the city of Chicago.
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (1) is presented the MVP trophy before during the 2011 NBA playoffs © Mike DiNovo-Imagn Images © Mike DiNovo-Imagn Images
The former Chicago Bulls superstar did not disappoint on the mound, which prompted a reaction from the MLB.
"D-Rose threw a perfect strike first pitch for #OpeningDay!" the league posted on X.
D-Rose threw a perfect strike first pitch for #OpeningDay! pic.twitter.com/oz0GNnmOH8
— MLB (@MLB) March 27, 2025
With Rose in the building and his on-point first pitch setting the tone for the day, the White Sox were able to secure an impressive 8-1 victory against the Angels.
Rookie pitcher Sean Burke turned heads with his performance in six innings, while Andrew Benintendi, Lenyn Sosa and Austin Slater all homered for Chicago. The win also marked Will Venable's first win as manager after taking over the team in October.
The White Sox will now want to build on Thursday's win when they battle Los Angeles again on Saturday.
Rose, the youngest ever NBA MVP, was the Bulls' first overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. He immediately made an impact upon his arrival, winning the Rookie of the Year title in 2009.
Unfortunately, Rose's career in Chicago was also characterized by a couple of major injuries that significantly altered his career trajectory.
Rose officially retired in September 2024 after 16 memorable years in the NBA.
Related: Angels Make Historic Mike Trout Announcement on Thursday
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This story was originally published March 27, 2025 at 4:58 PM.