First pitches are so boring in America. A quasi-celebrity or local politician or contest winner gets introduced and throws a hilariously bad or boringly competent pitch while you're trying to unwrap your hot dog and give tepid applause at the same time. Japanese baseball just invites Rina Takeda and has her BREAK BLOCKS WITH HER FACE.
Here's the wind-up:
AND THE PITCH
Another advantage of Japanese baseball: the opposing team's leadoff batter stands in for the ceremonial first pitch. DO THIS NOW, MLB. The inexplicable phalanx of mascots can be optional. Except for Dinger. Dinger is not welcome to our first pitch party.
(h/t With Leather)