Fogel throws emotional first pitch during Pirates' home opener?

PITTSBURGH -- While the Pirates were welcomed back to PNC Park for their home opener Friday, the real homecoming was for Marc Fogel, who got to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Fogel, a teacher and native of nearby Butler County, was released from Russia in February after spending three and a half years in prison for possession of 17 grams of medical cannabis, for chronic back pain. Fogel had been recognized at a Penguins game since his return, but the Yinzer got to be center stage for the Pirates’ first game of the year, delivering the first pitch to Paul Skenes.

After delivering a strike, Fogel and Skenes shared some words and a photo with Pirates chairman Bob Nutting.

“I was surprised and excited when Bob called with the invitation to throw today’s first pitch,” Fogel said. “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,” Nutting said. “I can’t think of a better way to officially welcome him back home to Pittsburgh.”