Bruce Benedict to Throw First Pitch

The Rome Braves continue their long line of baseball legends to throw out the Opening Night ceremonial first pitch as former Atlanta Braves catcher Bruce Benedict will do the honors April 7th when Rome begins their ninth season.

In a 12 year career, Benedict played in 982 games ending his career with a .990 fielding percentage. A two-time National League All-Star, Benedict never played a position other than catcher during his entire major league career. The Fulton County Stadium crowd would chant "BRUUUCE" whenever Benedict came up to bat in Atlanta, perhaps giving the impression that he was being booed.

"We are extremely honored to have Bruce throw out the ceremonial first pitch this season," says Rome General Manager Michael Dunn. "Bruce represents the Braves organization in a fine way and remains as one of the most popular players ever to wear a Braves uniform. We're excited to have him at State Mutual Stadium."