On Thursday, a special moment took place at Chase Field before the Arizona Diamondbacks opened up a four-game series with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Prior to the game, local Phoenix police officer Tyler Moldovan threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
It was a special moment at Chase Field, as Moldovan was returning to the public eye for the first time since a tragic incident took place while he was in the line of duty.
In December of 2021, Moldovan was shot multiple times during a call.
Miraculously, Moldovan survived this encounter, and after months of rehabilitation, he made an appearance at the Diamondbacks home opener and courageously threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
The Diamondbacks posted a tribute video to thank Moldovan for his bravery and welcome him to the ballpark.
Not a dry eye in the house. 🥺
Phoenix Police Officer Tyler Moldovan, who was tragically shot multiple times in the line of duty, courageously threw out tonight’s ceremonial first pitch after a miraculous recovery and months of intense rehab.
You are an inspiration, Tyler! pic.twitter.com/MSE2p6qhyf
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) April 7, 2023
Accompanied by his wife and Diamondbacks legend Luis Gonzalez, Moldovan stood up from his wheelchair as the crowd gave him a warm hand.
He then threw a strike to right-hander Zac Gallen, who was catching the first pitch.
The crowd went wild for Moldovan as he delivered the pitch.
After months of recovery, Moldovan has inspired the City of Phoenix and the entire Diamondbacks organization.
The officer’s life was on the line after such a tragic incident, but with the support of his community, he recovered, and it all culminated in a special moment at Chase Field.
The Diamondbacks did not win their home opener, but Moldovan certainly inspired everybody present with his first pitch, and the entire Diamondbacks community will be pulling for him as he continues his recovery.
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