Fernando Mendoza to throw ceremonial first pitch at loanDepot park

The Marlins will host Mendoza, who won a national championship with Indiana, for Tuesday’s ceremonial first pitch

FILE - Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza passes against Miami during the first half of the College Football Playoff national championship game, Jan. 19, 2026, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File) (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) (Rebecca Blackwell/AP)

MIAMI — The Miami Marlins announced Wednesday that Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the likely No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will throw the ceremonial first pitch April 21 at loanDepot park before the second of a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Mendoza, 22, attended Christopher Columbus High School in Miami.

In 2025, Mendoza led the No. 1 Hoosiers to a 16-0 record, defeating No. 10 Miami 27-21 in the national championship game at Hard Rock Stadium.

Mendoza finished the season with career highs of 3,535 passing yards and 41 touchdowns and tied a career low with six interceptions.

Before the game, Mendoza is expected to participate in brief photo opportunities and pregame ceremonies near the dugout.

The club has not yet released details on whether Mendoza will be joined by guests or participate in additional activities throughout the game.

Fans can purchase tickets here.

Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

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Brandon Liguori

Brandon Liguori

Brandon Liguori is a Floor Director and Web Contributor for WPLG Local 10 News.