Stars Step Up to the Plate: Celebrity Baseball Fans
Baseball isn't just America's pastime; it's also a favorite among many celebrities who enjoy the thrill of the game. From throwing out the first pitch to cheering from the stands, these stars embrace the sport with enthusiasm.
Dave McCary, known for his connection to Emma Stone, took to the mound as a “lifelong Padres fan” before a June 2021 date night with his wife. The moment was a highlight for the couple, showcasing their shared love for baseball.
Kate Upton and Justin Verlander’s romance blossomed on a commercial set for Major League Baseball 2K12 in February 2012. Five years later, they tied the knot, with Verlander reflecting on their journey via Instagram in December 2019: “It’s been such an incredible decade! Meeting my best friend, getting married and starting a family has been the most amazing gift ever!!! Nothing tops that.”
In August 2025, NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas joined his family in Miami to watch the Marlins take on the New York Yankees. His visit to his hometown included anchoring live news segments, blending work with leisure.
Country music star Garth Brooks threw out the first pitch at a Pittsburgh Pirates game in August 2023, a moment reminiscent of his earlier spring training antics with the New York Mets in March 2000.
Chris Pratt brought his son Jack to a Los Angeles Dodgers game in July 2023, where they both threw out the first pitch. Pratt shared his excitement on Instagram: “What a day! Jack and I got to hit the mound together, eat our bodyweight in Dodger Dogs and delivered the game opening announcement! Thank you @claytonkershaw for asking me to throw yesterday’s first pitch for faith and family day, what an honor! ⚾️ Let’s go Dodgers!”
Gwen Stefani was spotted at a July 2023 game for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, accompanied by one of her sons and husband Blake Shelton, who cheered for Stefani’s home team.
Thomas Rhett enjoyed a Savannah Bananas game in June 2023 with his wife Lauren Akins and friends. The Bananas are known for their unique "Banana Ball" style of play, which includes choreographed dances and entertaining antics.
The Rich Kids of Beverly Hills alum attended game one of the 2022 MLB playoffs with Jordan McGraw in October 2022, supporting the Los Angeles Dodgers against the San Diego Padres.
Tom Cruise showcased his athletic prowess by throwing out the first pitch at a Philadelphia Phillies game in June 2022, while former Office co-stars B.J. Novak and Mindy Kaling were seen enjoying a Boston Red Sox game that same month.
In October 2021, Cruise was also spotted with his son Connor at the National League Division Series between the San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers.
Emma Stone and Dave McCary enjoyed a rare date night at a San Diego Padres game in June 2021, further solidifying their bond over baseball.
The season 17 Bachelorette made headlines when she threw the first pitch at a Seattle Mariners game in June 2021. Meanwhile, Ryan Reynolds shared his experience attending a Yankees game in April 2021, humorously declaring himself an official Yankee after years in New York.
Ben Affleck, a dedicated Boston Red Sox fan, attended a World Series game in October 2018 with ex-wife Jennifer Garner shortly after their divorce was finalized.
The cast of 90210 cheered on the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Cincinnati Reds at Dodger Stadium in August 2012. Similarly, The Office star showed support for the Dodgers during their match against the Philadelphia Phillies in July 2012.
In June 2012, four actors sang "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during an interleague matchup between the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium.
Snoop Dogg made headlines when he threw out the first pitch at a Milwaukee Brewers game in June 2024 before mingling with players during batting practice. He previously threw out a pitch at a Chicago White Sox game in May 2012.
Vince Vaughn threw out the first pitch before a Chicago Cubs vs. Boston Red Sox game at Wrigley Field in June 2012. The Riches actress was seen chatting with Chicago White Sox player John Danks before a game against the Detroit Tigers in June 2011.
Laguna Beach star Kristin Cavallari threw out the ceremonial first pitch at Dodger Stadium in July 2010. In June of that year, Prince William made headlines by throwing the first pitch before a New York Mets game against the Minnesota Twins.
In August 2009, Kate Hudson watched as the New York Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox, while Dallas actor Larry Hagman participated in the Hollywood Stars Celebrity Softball event at Dodger Stadium that same month.
American Idol winner Carrie Underwood played ball during the City of Hope Softball Challenge in Nashville in June 2009. The supermodel who threw out a ceremonial first pitch before a Detroit Tigers game in August 2003 remains an iconic figure in celebrity baseball history.
In 2000, E.R. alum Noah Wyle met with Yankees second baseman Chuck Knoblauch during spring training camp in Tampa, Florida. The Baywatch star practiced her swing during a celebrity baseball game at Dodger Stadium in August 1993.
The Blossom actor participated in another celebrity baseball event at Dodger Stadium in August 1992. The then-married couple was seen enjoying an Atlanta Braves game back in 1991.
A father-son duo was spotted watching the Los Angeles Dodgers play against the New York Yankees at Dodger Stadium on June 27, 2010. This blend of family and baseball continues to resonate with fans and celebrities alike.
