Not sure what to make of this and so I share it for your contemplation. This this evening the Cubs square off for the third game in a three-game series against the Reds.
Of course the Cubs will play tonight in the historic Wrigley Field. It is steeped in history and holds a special place in the hearts of many baseball fans. To add to its storied history, this evening U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens will throw out the first pitch.
Probably best not to read too much into Justice Stevens' role on the mound other than as an opportunity to welcome home and honor one of Chicago's most prominent native sons. But given all of the recent talk on Capitol Hill about justices as umpires it make me wonder if the metaphor of jurists in the ballpark isn't about ready to go too far. No doubt critics will link Justice Stevens' jurisprudence to his role this evening as a pitcher, an active participant, rather than an impartial referee. Throw a strike, Mr. Justice. The Cubbies need all the help they can get. From the Cubs website:
Supreme matters: U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens will throw out the first pitch on Wednesday. It is believed to be the first time a U.S. Supreme Court Justice has done so at a Major League game.
Supreme Court justices once frequently attended Opening Day in Washington D.C., most often sharing a box with the president. The president usually got to throw out the first pitch.
Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes attended a Cubs-Giants game at Wrigley Field on Aug. 22, 1930. According to research by baseball historian Ed Hartig, Hughes did attend several banquets as well as the game, but did not throw out a first pitch.
