MLB fans emotional after local hero Tyler Moldovan throws out first pitch in D'backs home game: "One of the shining few"

Phoenix cop Tyler Moldovan threw the ceremonial opening pitch at Chase Field during the Arizona Diamondbacks' first home game of the MLB season.

The world of sports is no stranger to emotional moments, and the opening pitch at a baseball game is often a time for celebration and excitement. However, the opening pitch at the Arizona Diamondbacks game on Thursday night held a much deeper meaning for many MLB fans.

The opening pitch was thrown by Tyler Moldovan, a local hero who had recently completed a long and difficult recovery from life-threatening bullet wounds he suffered while performing his duties as a police officer. Moldovan's story has touched the hearts of many in the Arizona community and beyond, and the crowd at Chase Field was eager to show their support and appreciation.

Moldovan was helped onto the field by his wife, Chelsea, and Diamondbacks legend Luis Gonzalez. As Moldovan took the mound and threw the perfect pitch to starting catcher Zac Gallen, the stadium erupted in cheers and applause. Fans held up signs and banners with messages of encouragement, and many were brought to tears by the young man's bravery.

However, it wasn't just the cheers and applause that made the moment emotional. It was the sheer determination and resilience that Moldovan showed in overcoming his accident and making it back to the field.

MLB fans also took to Twitter to voice their encouragement and support for Moldovan.

"One of the shining few" wrote one fan.

"Well hell.. I didn’t want to end my night in tears, but here we are," tweeted another.

Here are the top reactions:

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Tyler Moldovan's MLB appearance will be remembered by fans for years to come

Even though the Arizona Diamondbacks lost 5-2 to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the night will be remembered by the MLB fraternity because of Tyler Moldovan's amazing feat.

Less than two years ago, the rookie police officer was shot eight times, including once in the head, by an assailant in Phoenix. It was truly amazing to see him recover and make his way to the pitch in such a short amount of time.

In an interview after the game, Moldovan expressed his gratitude to the medical professionals who saved his life, as well as his colleagues and the community that supported him throughout his recovery. He also urged the MLB world to support law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to protect the community.