Fauci receives Hutch Award, throws out 1st pitch

SEATTLE -- The Mariners recognized Dr. Anthony Fauci on Tuesday in conjunction with the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease being recognized for the Hutch Award.

Fauci threw out the ceremonial first pitch at T-Mobile Park ahead of the Mariners’ game against the Yankees.

Fauci lobbed his throw to Scott Servais -- a much more seamless heave than when he threw out the inaugural first pitch of the 2020 MLB season -- then autographed a mask for the Mariners manager.

Earlier, the longtime baseball fan Fauci also mingled with Mariners chairman and managing general partner John Stanton, president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto and president of business operations Catie Griggs. They were among the group that presented the honor to Fauci pregame.

The Hutch Award was created in 1965 in honor of Fred Hutchinson, the former MLB pitcher and manager who died from lung cancer the previous year. The honor was established by his longtime friends and is given annually to an active MLB player who "best exemplifies the fighting spirit and competitive desire" of Hutchinson, by persevering through adversity.

Hutchinson’s death inspired his brother Dr. Bill Hutchinson, a surgeon in Seattle, to create the Seattle-based cancer center. In addition to a history of major breakthroughs in cancer research, the center is known globally for expertise in infectious diseases and has been a prominent leader in tracking, monitoring and developing vaccines and treatments for COVID-19.

Former Mariners who’ve received the Hutch Award include Dee Gordon (2019), Raúl Ibañez (2013) and Jamie Moyer (2003). Fauci is just the second non-player to receive the award, joining former President Jimmy Carter.