Paul Lo Duca Snubbed From Catching George Bush’s Opening Day First Pitch

Imagine, if you will, a scene in which myriad photographers are gawking at the president of the United States of America because he’s about to embrace a photo-op with a person that may be recognized as a villain across the country. Probably not the best idea. Of course, George Bush takes pictures with Dick Cheney all the time, but that’s not who we’re talking about. We’re talking about the plans the Washington Nationals had for their starting catcher Paul Lo Duca, a probable PED user and Mitchell Report honorary, to catch the opening pitch thrown by Mr. George W. Bush. Got them clickers ready?

[Paul] Lo Duca and a team spokesman confirmed yesterday that [manager Manny] Acta will catch the pitch, which would be the president’s sixth ceremonial toss in his tenure. The move eliminates a potentially awkward situation with the president, who spoke out against steroid use in his 2004 State of the Union address, throwing a pitch to Lo Duca, who was among the most prominently featured major leaguers in the Mitchell Report’s investigation of steroids in Major League Baseball.

Tough break, but the photograph couldn’t be worse than the “Mission Accomplished” debacle of 03′, can it? Besides, why does an exiting president care about a few photos with a possible steroids user? We’re sure he’s compiled a fabulous gallery comprised of him and Roger Clemens in Texas. Hunting. Or doing outdoorsy manly things.
Nats’ manager to cover home [Washington Times]
Image [AFP]