St. John's University Athletics
Franco To Throw Out First Pitch At Citi Field Opener
3/17/2009 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
March 17, 2009
FLUSHING, N.Y. - The New York Mets today announced that former Mets great and St. John's star pitcher John Franco will throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Sunday, March 29 Big East college baseball game between St. John's University and Georgetown University at Citi Field.
The Brooklyn-born Franco is the Mets all-time leader with 276 saves in 15 seasons with the club (1990-2004). During his collegiate career, he tossed two no-hitters as a freshman and helped lead St. John's to the 1980 College World Series.
"As a native New Yorker, a former Met, and St. John's alum, it's a tremendous honor to be part of this game," said Franco. "It's something I'll treasure the rest of my life." Franco has been a guest instructor during Mets Spring Training in Port St. Lucie, Fla. He will make multiple appearances on behalf of the club in variety of capacities throughout the season.
"It's great to have John throwing out the first pitch for this event," said Red Storm head coach Ed Blankmeyer. "He's been a major part of both the Mets and St. John's organizations."
The St. John's-Georgetown game sold out in 45 minutes when tickets went on sale on March 2.
