The San Diego Padres returned home Wednesday to play their first game at Petco Park since the death of “Mr. Padre” Tony Gwynn. The Hall of Fame outfielder died of cancer Monday morning at age 54.
The Padres plan to remember Gwynn at Wednesday night’s game against the Seattle Mariners with a moment of silence, a pre-game video tribute and videos of some of Gwynn's greatest plays shown throughout the night.
SDSU interim baseball coach Mark Martinez will throw out the first pitch, Padres spokeswoman Shana Wilson said.
Tony Gwynn Memorial
Date:Thursday, June 26
Time: 7:19 p.m.
Location: Petco Park
The Padres said “the event will celebrate Tony's legendary life, accomplishments, and contributions to the Padres, to San Diego, and to the sport of baseball. It will feature special guests from throughout his lifetime."
San Diego Padres added a black arm band to their jerseys on Monday night in memory of Gwynn. They also hung his #19 jersey in their dugout.
MLB teams across the country held moments of silence this week before their games to honor Gwynn and remember his achievements.
The Seattle Mariners honored Gwynn Monday at Safeco Field with number 19 etched in the 5.5-hole in the infield between third base and shortstop, where Gwynn drove many of his 3,141 career hits.
The Detroit Tigers, who hosted the Kansas City Royals Monday, also honored Gwynn by etching "TG 5.5" in their infield dirt.
Philadelphia Phillies on Monday hung Tony Gwynn Jr.'s No. 19 jersey in their dugout during their game against the Atlanta Braves. Gwynn Jr., an outfielder for the Phillies, is on the bereavement list.
