Sam Grisman to Throw First Pitch During San Francisco Giants Matchup Against Pittsburgh Pirates

Photo Credit: Rachel Ward

Second-generation foreman of David “Dawg” Grisman’s music catalog, leader of his own fast pickin’ self-titled bluegrass troupe, and deadhead, Sam Grisman, has received the coveted honor of tossing the ceremonial first pitch during today’s matchup between the San Francisco Giants and the Pittsburgh Pirates. The game is scheduled to begin today, Wednesday, July 30, at San Francisco’s Oracle Park. 

Grisman’s role on the pitcher’s mound comes before his participation in Thursday, July 31’s Heart of Town lineup. The Heart of Town is led by Grahame Lesh & Friends, and supported by a rotating cast of the jam scene favorites and ad-lib masterminds, who will come together in recognition of the Dead’s abundant influence over three nights, July 31 through August 2. The nightly concerts will take place at Pier 48, a five-minute walk from Oracle Park, and follow Dead & Company’s schedule at Golden Gate Park. 

The bassist will perform alongside a one-of-a-kind roster of acclaimed talent, including his father’s Old & in the Way bandmate, Peter Rowan. Notably, Sam Grisman Project has been touring with the mastermind behind beloved classics like “Midnight Moonlight,” “Land of the Navajo,” and more, sharing the stage and paying homage to the bluegrass genre and Grisman’s rich experiences with his father’s musical colleagues. 

Beyond Grisman and Rowan’s participation on Thursday night, the lineup also leads with two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recipient, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Stephen Stills, and Al Schnier, Alex Koford, Andy Frasco, Bill Nershi, Elliott Peck, Eric Krasno, Garrett Deolian, Giffin Goldsmith, Holly Bowling, Ivan Neville, Jeremy Hoenig, John Kadlecik, John Molo, JP McLean, Maggie Rose, Melvin Seals, Nathan Graham, Nicki Bluhm, Pete Sears,, Roger McNamee, Taylor Goldsmith and Tony Hall. 

Grisman follows in the footsteps of other celebrated recipients to step onto the green and support the San Francisco Giants. In 1993, the Grateful Dead were honored with the task of singing the National Anthem for the Bay Area team, which won 4-3 in 11 innings. 

LIMITED TICKETS remain for Thursday, July 31’s Heart of Town event. Read more about the impending lineup here.  

All passes can be purchased at sfgiants.com/heartoftown. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Rex Foundation. 

View Grisman’s post via Instagram below.