Satya Nadella delivers a first pitch with the help of Master Chief

Years of cricket, a former MLB catcher, and Master Chief combined to help Satya Nadella deliver a rocket of a first pitch.

What you need to know

• Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella virtually threw out the first pitch for a Seattle Mariners game.
• Nadella was assisted by former MLB catcher and Mariner, David Valle.
• Nadella was also accompanied by Master Chief and an entourage of Spartans.

In the world of social distancing, people have to find creative ways to keep traditions alive. It's an honor to throw the opening pitch at a Major League Baseball game, but with social distancing and other safety precautions in place, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadellla had to get creative. On Sunday, September 20, Nadella got to virtually throw the first pitch for the Seattle Mariners.

The Mariners shared a video on Twitter of Nadella tossing the first pitch to David Valle, a former catcher for the Mariners. Nadella threw a fine warm-up pitch to Valle, though Nadella didn't bring enough heat for Valle's liking. The catcher told Nadella that he could do better, so Nadella brought in some additional help, Master Chief.

With an entourage of Master Chief and other Spartans behind him, Nadella ripped a pitch to Valle.

Throwing out today's virtual first pitch is @Microsoft C.E.O. @satyanadella, joined by @DaveValleMLB and a few special guests. pic.twitter.com/487cBBqyYf

— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) September 20, 2020

Theatrics aside, Nadella threw out a good pitch, likely due to his years of experience playing cricket. In a 2014 interview, Nadella said, "I think playing cricket taught me more about working in teams and leadership that has stayed with me throughout my career." It seems that cricket also helped the CEO deliver a nice opening pitch.