The Hit Network’s Dan & Christie are literally stepping up to the plate – as Christie Hayes prepares to throw the ceremonial first pitch at Baseball Tasmania’s Division 1 Grand Final on Sunday, April 13.

Baseball Tasmania’s Joel Ketchell (also President of Pirates Baseball Club, based in Hobart) joined the show this week, revealing a very Tasmanian twist behind Christie’s selection – he nearly didn’t ask her to be involved because he wasn’t convinced she actually lived in Hobart!

A few Instagram ‘stalks’ later, and the former Home and Away star was confirmed to be a true local and officially invited to launch the state’s biggest baseball match of the year.

Christie – Hit100.9’s resident baseball tragic – has seen Major League Baseball live in Tokyo and is signing her son up to the junior league next season.

Christie is passionate about growing the sport in Tasmania and says throwing the first pitch is “an absolute honour.”

“What I love most is that this all came from a chat on our show – and now we’re celebrating a really special community moment.”

“My family is baseball-obsessed, and to now help shine a light on the sport in Tassie through our show is something that I’m really passionate about. My nine-year-old is joining the junior league next season, and I’d love to see more kids – especially girls – giving it a go.”

Listen to Dan & Christie across Tasmania and Regional Victoria on the Hit Network from 6-9am weekdays, also on LiSTNR.