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WATCH: Houston Texans QB C.J. Stroud Throws Astros First Pitch vs. Braves
Houston Texans' C.J. Stroud was honored to take the Astros' mound during the ceremonial first pitch Monday against the Braves.
HOUSTON — Houston Texans' C.J. Stroud has spent most of the off-season in his hometown of Los Angeles and developing chemistry with All-Pro wide receiver Stefon Diggs. But over the previous few days, Stroud returned to Houston as the Texans began their offseason workouts at NRG Stadium.
Stroud's return to Houston led him to Minute Maid Park Monday night. Before the interconference match between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves, Stroud took part in the ceremonial first pitch.
Apr 15, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud throws out one of the
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"What's up Texans fans, it's your boy C.J. Stroud," Stroud said via the Texans' social media. I am happy to be here to throw the first pitch. Go Texans. Go Astros."
The game marked Stroud's second appearance throwing the ceremonial first pitch. His first came after the Texans made him the second pick of the 2023 NFL Draft in April. He took part in the event alongside Will Anderson Jr., who the Texans traded for with the No. 3 pick.
Stroud has since established himself as arguably the most prominent face in Houston sports, as the 22-year-old quarterback became a Pro Bowler within his first season.
He finished his rookie season with 4,557 total passing yards, including the postseason, which is the second-most in NFL history by a rookie quarterback — trailing only Andrew Luck (4,662) in 2012.
He revitalized a franchise within his first season. The Texans won a combined 11 games during the 2023 season and advanced to the Division Round of the Playoffs.
Unfortunately, Stroud's second first pitch experience ended in a loss. The Astros fell to the Braves 6-1 after giving up 11 hits. Houston has had a shaky start under new manager Joe Espada with a 6-12 record.
