Cleveland Indians Announce Kenny Lofton Throwing First Pitch at World Series Game 1

CLEVELAND, OH - Well, it's official. Former Cleveland Indians outfielder Kenny Lofton will throw out the first pitch of the World Series. The decision to go with the '90s hero comes after a week of teeth gnashing over who should get the honor. The fans wanted either wanted a splashy, gimmicky pick like Charlie Sheen, reprising his Ricky Vaughn role; or nostalgic like drummer John Adams or play-by-play man Tom Hamilton.

Lofton isn't a bad choice though. He spent 11 years in a Tribe uniform and won four consecutive Gold Gloves from 1993 to 1996. He was also a six-time All-Star and finished fourth in MVP voting during the Indians' 1994 campaign.

The team also announced that former second basemen Carlos Baerga would throw out the first pitch of Game 2. Baerga spent eight seasons in a Tribe uniform, making three All-Star teams and winning two Silver Slugger awards.

Both Lofton and Baerga were members of the 1995 squad that lost to the Atlanta Braves in the World Series.

For the most part, fan reaction to the announcement was positive:

For those hoping to see Sheen come out while 'Wild Thing' blared through the speakers, this video of Danny Salazar warming up to the song will have to tide you over:

Photo from Jerry Reuss, Flickr