It took Alex Ovechkin 13 years to capture his first Stanley Cup and on Saturday it took the Washington Capitals captain two attempts to get his ceremonial first pitch just right.
Ovechkin and his teammates were welcomed to Nationals Park by the Washington Nationals and the Russian superstar was given the honour of getting the celebrations underway.
Ovie strolled out to the mound in flipflops and let one fly but Nationals ace Max Scherzer, fresh off his immaculate inning earlier this week, couldn’t reach Ovechkin’s high first attempt.
After the 2018 Conn Smythe winner was jeered by his teammates, Scherzer tossed back the ball to give him a second attempt that he made good on.
When asked about his high first pitch, Ovechkin said it was because he is “too strong” before adding “you always have to have a second chance so I did it.” Linemate Tom Wilson then added if you give Ovechkin a second chance he’s going to capitalize on it just like he does on the ice.
Capitals head coach Barry Trotz told reporters at a media availability during the game he liked seeing Ovechkin give it a second go.
“That was sort of maybe a little bit symbolic to where he’s come,” Trotz said. “Where the pitch failed. Instead of ‘That’s enough,’ he said, ‘No, give me another shot at it.’ And he took another shot and did much better. So, I’m proud of him for that.”
The Capitals haven’t stopped partying since defeating the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final this past Thursday. The team’s celebratory parade is scheduled to take place Tuesday in Washington.
Saturday’s adventures were captured by the teams on social media.
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