In a video posted to X, Jim"Mattress Mack" McIngvale said he wouldn't be allowed to throw the first pitch due to MLB's advertising ties to a competitor.Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale showed up at a Vegas casino with a briefcase full of cash to bet on the Houston Astros winning the World Series in 2019.
KHOU 11 reached out to the Astros, which responded by saying that they won't have a statement. Mattress Firm did send over this statement: "While we love being the Official Sleep Partner of Major League Baseball, we don't determine who throws out the first pitch. We’re here to help Astros fans crush their sleep, not their dreams. Go ‘Stros!"As for other festivities around Game 1, all fans going to the game got an Astros rally towel. The Apollo Chamber Players performed the national anthem and Astros announcers Todd Kalas, Geoff Blum and Julia Morales got the"Play Ball" call.
Kendale Walker will perform the national anthem, and current Dynamo player Héctor Herrera, along with former Dynamo star Brian Ching, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.Before You Leave, Check This Out