NC ‘Healthcare Superhero’ to throw 1st pitch at Durham Bulls home opener

Between guiding North Carolina through the latest COVID-19 protocols and updates, Dr. Mandy Cohen got a chance this week to exercise her throwing arm.

North Carolina’s Secretary of Health and Human Services, front and center during the COVID pandemic, was set to take the mound at Durham Bulls Athletic Park on Tuesday to throw the ceremonial first pitch.

The Bulls began their home slate against Jacksonville, the first of 12 straight games at the DBAP. Cohen announced on Twitter that she would be throwing the first pitch.

“Fun news: I’ll be throwing out the first pitch @DurhamBulls season opener tonight!!,” Cohen tweeted Tuesday morning. “Thanks to the Durham Bulls for honoring healthcare heroes at the game.”

Opening night’s theme was “Healthcare Superhero Night.” The Bulls were honoring not only fictional heroes, but health care professionals throughout the Triangle and North Carolina.

Cohen was appointed DHHS Secretary in January 2017 and, along with Gov. Roy Cooper, has held weekly press conferences during the pandemic.

As of Tuesday morning roughly 50% of adults in North Carolina had received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine and 44.5% were fully vaccinated.

Recently, Cooper announced that North Carolina residents no longer have to wear masks outdoors and sports arenas may fill their seats to 50% capacity. DBAP seats 10,000. Cooper announced recently that he expects to lift almost all restrictions by June 1.

Durham was 5-1 heading into Tuesday’s game, with all six of their games coming on the road.

This story was originally published May 11, 2021 at 11:54 AM with the headline "NC ‘Healthcare Superhero’ to throw 1st pitch at Durham Bulls home opener."