Dr. Anthony Fauci will throw out the first pitch before the 2020 MLB season opener between the Washington Nationals and New York Yankees on Thursday at Nationals Park. 

The Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the United States, Fauci is one of the country's foremost experts on coronavirus and is also a noted Nationals fan.

The 79-year-old urges wearing masks to help stop the spread of COVID-19, and wore a face covering adorned with Nationals logos while testifying before a House committee last month over the United States' response to the coronavirus.

"Dr. Fauci has been a true champion for our country during the COVID-19 pandemic and throughout his distinguished career," the Nationals said in a statement on Monday.

"It is only fitting that we honor him as we kick off the 2020 season and defend our World Series championship title."