Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion and Scottsdale resident, took center stage at Chase Field this week for NASCAR Night with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Known for his speed on the track, Larson embraced a different kind of spotlight as he prepared for the ceremonial first pitch. Fans at the ballpark got a candid, humorous glimpse of the racer off the track, including his baseball loyalties, thoughts on Championship Weekend at Phoenix Raceway, and reflections on his path to a second NASCAR Cup Series title.
Key Highlights
- Kyle Larson threw out the ceremonial first pitch at Chase Field during NASCAR Night.
- Fans cheered as Larson brought humor and humility to the event.
- Larson discussed his baseball loyalties, including Giants, Dodgers, and Diamondbacks.
- NASCAR Championship Weekend returns to Phoenix Raceway from October 31 to November 2.
- New York Jets legend FitzMagic_14 made a surprise appearance during the event.
A Candid Moment Before the Pitch
Before taking the mound, Larson chatted with Devon Henry about his pitch and baseball experience. He was quick to acknowledge the challenges of performing without practice.
“I don’t expect much. We don’t get to practice. We stand out here for a while, but we don’t like actually get to play catch. So, um yeah, I don’t expect anything great, but I’m just hoping not to hit the ground and, uh, not embarrass myself too bad.” – Kyle Larson
Fans responded warmly, many in NASCAR jerseys cheering him on as he took his position. Larson’s easygoing personality and ability to connect with fans made the moment memorable beyond the ceremonial pitch itself.
‘@KyleLarsonRacin is here at Chase Field for #NASCAR Night to promote Championship Weekend @PhoenixRaceway
New York Jets legend @FitzMagic_14 also makes a surprise appearance ahead of TNF tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/1dRgVMUpr4
— Cole Cusumano (@Cole_Cusumano_) September 25, 2025
Baseball Loyalties and Personal Connections
Larson revealed his personal ties to the sport of baseball, highlighting his lifelong fandom and recent experiences attending games in Arizona and with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“Earlier this year, the Dodgers had us out at spring training and then I went to one of their games throughout the summer. It was actually the night that Shi was on the mound for the first time, so they host me then. I feel like I need to be a fan of theirs.” – Kyle Larson
He also noted his time in Arizona, watching the Diamondbacks play in the World Series.
“We had a place here in Arizona. We came to the World Series game here, watched them lose unfortunately. So I, I don’t know. I definitely cheer for, I would say, the Diamondbacks, Dodgers now, and Giants.” – Kyle Larson
Larson’s lighthearted acknowledgment of pressure brought laughter to fans, particularly when he joked about the ceremonial pitch tradition.
“Yeah, that puts more pressure on the pitch now. Either way, it’s cool. It’s cool to be here for NASCAR night at the game and to let us kind of promote the race.” – Kyle Larson
NASCAR Championship Weekend Preview
The ceremonial first pitch also served as a platform to promote NASCAR Championship Weekend, which returns to Phoenix Raceway from October 31 to November 2. The event will crown four champions across the ARCA Menards West Series, Craftsman Truck Series, Xfinity Series, and Cup Series. Fans can purchase tickets at phoenixraceway.com to witness the season’s conclusion.
Larson’s appearance at Chase Field highlighted the crossover between NASCAR and other sports, providing fans with an interactive and entertaining experience. With Championship Weekend approaching, the event also reinforced the growing presence of NASCAR in the Arizona sports community.
News in Brief: Kyle Larson Throws First Pitch at Chase Field During NASCAR Night
Kyle Larson, 2021 Cup Series champion, threw out the first pitch at Chase Field during NASCAR Night, bringing humor and humility to fans in attendance. He discussed his baseball loyalties, including the Giants, Dodgers, and Diamondbacks, while reflecting on past experiences attending games. NASCAR Championship Weekend returns to Phoenix Raceway from October 31 to November 2, crowning champions across four series. New York Jets legend FitzMagic_14 also made a surprise appearance.
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