Former Rays manager Joe Maddon to throw first pitch ahead of Game 3

Joe Maddon, a longtime Tampa Bay Rays manager who led the team to its first American League championship in 2008, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 3 of the World Series on Monday, Oct. 26, at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Maddon, 72, was the Rays' manager during the 2008 World Series, which they lost to the Philadelphia Phillies in five games. The Rays' only victory during that series, a 4-2 win in Game 2, is the most recent World Series game played at Tropicana Field.

The Milwaukee Brewers hold a 2-0 series lead as the Fall Classic returns to Tropicana Field for the first time since that series in 2008. 

More: Tropicana Field, home of the Rays, is one of the most unique ballparks in baseball

Maddon managed the Rays for nine years. His tenure was highlighted by the team's run to the World Series, followed by an AL East title in 2010, an AL Wild Card berth in 2011 and another postseason appearance in 2013.

"His appearance is sure to fire up the crowd, as he is fondly remembered for his transformational role in franchise history," according to MLB.com. "He helped make the Rays relevant with a dash of analytically minded methods – shifting, platoons, etc. – and his unique personal touches, like eliminating formal dress codes, implementing themed dress-up trips and occasionally inviting animals and other acts into the clubhouse."  

Maddon won 754 games and made four playoff trips with the Rays before leaving to join the Chicago Cubs after the 2014 season. He led the Cubs to the postseason in 2015 and led them to their first World Series championship in 108 years in 2016. He also managed the Los Angeles Angels from 2020 to 2022.