Alysa Liu’s Unforgettable Cardinals First Pitch

ST. LOUIS – Before she captivated the world with a gold medal performance in Milan, Italy, Alysa Liu was captivating a different kind of audience at Busch Stadium. Last May, the then 20-year-old figure skating sensation threw out the ceremonial first pitch before a St. Louis Cardinals game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, and it wasn’t your typical toss.

Liu didn’t simply walk to the mound and deliver a baseball. Instead, she incorporated her athletic prowess from the ice, executing a double axel spin on the grass in front of the pitcher’s mound before releasing the pitch. The moment, captured on video and widely shared, quickly went viral, showcasing Liu’s remarkable athleticism and adding a unique flair to the pre-game festivities.

The Cardinals’ social media team celebrated the moment, posting a video of the pitch with the caption, “Talk about athletic! From the baseball diamond to the Olympic ice, Liu can do it all.” The post also included a congratulatory message following her recent Olympic victory.

Just over a year later, on February 19, 2026, the Cardinals revisited the moment, acknowledging Liu’s historic gold medal win in women’s singles figure skating at the Winter Olympics. The timing underscored the remarkable trajectory of an athlete who seamlessly transitions between two demanding disciplines.

Liu’s first pitch wasn’t just a publicity stunt; it was a demonstration of the dedication and physical control required to excel at the highest levels of figure skating. The double axel, considered one of the most challenging jumps in the sport, requires precise timing, balance, and core strength. To execute it on grass, and then follow it with an accurate pitch, highlighted Liu’s exceptional coordination and adaptability.

The event also resonated with fans on social media, with many commenting on the novelty and skill involved. A post on Reddit’s r/FigureSkating forum described it as “arguably the best first pitch” the Cardinals had ever seen, with one commenter jokingly noting the unusual setting – “while the cardinals were in the Vatican.”

The intersection of sports was not lost on observers. Liu’s appearance at Busch Stadium, and her subsequent Olympic triumph, speaks to the increasingly versatile nature of modern athletes. While specialization remains crucial for elite performance, athletes like Liu demonstrate the benefits of cross-training and a well-rounded athletic foundation.

The Cardinals’ decision to invite Liu to throw out the first pitch was a savvy move, capitalizing on her rising profile and connecting with a broader audience. It also provided a memorable moment for fans, showcasing the intersection of two beloved American pastimes.

Beyond the spectacle, Liu’s story is one of perseverance and dedication. Her journey to Olympic gold was not without its challenges, but she overcame them with grace and determination. The image of her spinning on the pitcher’s mound, and then confidently delivering the first pitch, serves as a powerful symbol of her athleticism and unwavering spirit.

The video of Liu’s first pitch, shared by U.S. Figure Skating on TikTok, continues to circulate, reminding fans of her versatility and charm. It’s a moment that encapsulates her unique talent and her ability to connect with audiences both on and off the ice.

As Liu continues her career, both on the ice and potentially beyond, her appearance at Busch Stadium will likely be remembered as a charming footnote in a remarkable athletic story. It’s a reminder that even the most elite athletes can find joy in embracing new challenges and connecting with fans in unexpected ways.

The Cardinals, and Major League Baseball, benefited from the association with an Olympic champion, and Liu, in turn, gained exposure to a new audience. It was a win-win situation that highlighted the power of sports to unite and inspire.