Statement From Marc Fogel Following First Pitch Ceremony at PNC Park

On Monday, March 17, Pittsburgh Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting surprised Pittsburgh area native, Marc Fogel, with an invitation to toss out the ceremonial first pitch prior to today’s Pirates Home Opener at PNC Park.

The sold-out PNC Park crowd warmly welcomed Fogel back home to Pittsburgh after being detained by Russian authorities in 2021. Fogel, who was sentenced in 2022 to 14 years in prison, was freed in February 2025 after three and a half years in detainment.

“I was surprised and excited when Bob called with the invitation to throw today’s first pitch,” said Fogel. “As a diehard Pirates fan, being on the field today is an amazing opportunity. I’m grateful to him, and the whole Pirates community, for a wonderful welcome home.”

“As I watched the news coverage of Marc landing in the United States draped in an American flag, wearing his Steelers winter cap and drinking an Iron City beer, I knew this moment just had to happen,” said Nutting. “I can’t think of a better way to officially welcome him back home to Pittsburgh.”

Pirates starting pitcher and reigning National League Rookie of the Year, Paul Skenes, caught Fogel’s ceremonial pitch.