Mathew Barzal, the New York Islanders' top pick in the 2015 NHL Draft, threw the ceremonial first pitch before the game between the Seattle Mariners and Baltimore Orioles at Safeco Field on Wednesday prior to Seattle pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma's no-hitter.
Barzal, a center who was the 16th player taken in the first round, was part of a celebration of the five members of the Western Hockey League's Seattle Thunderbirds who were drafted by NHL teams in June. Barzal, forward Ryan Gropp (No. 41, New York Rangers) and coach Steve Konowalchuk toured the stadium and the field before Barzal took the mound.
First baseman Jesus Montero caught the first pitch and autographed the ball. Iwakuma followed by pitching the fifth no-hitter in Mariners history in a 3-0 Seattle win.
Barzal, who attended Islanders development camp in July, is expected to return to the Thunderbirds this season.