Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley Throw Ceremonial First Pitch at Angels vs. Royals Game
Event Overview
Ahead of the Major League Baseball matchup on Saturday, August 15, 2026, between the Los Angeles Angels and the Kansas City Royals at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, KISS legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley took to the mound to throw the ceremonial first pitch.
First Pitch Attempts
According to a social media post from Major League Baseball, Simmons showcased his pitching skills by throwing a total of four pitches before he finally got it right. The Los Angeles Angels officially invited the iconic duo to participate in this ceremonial event, adding a rock and roll twist to the baseball game.
Previous Ceremonial First Pitches
Past Experiences on the Mound
This isn’t Simmons’ first time throwing a ceremonial first pitch. In July 2011, he threw out the first pitch at a game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets at Dodger Stadium. Additionally, in May 2018, Simmons took to Wrigley Field to throw the first pitch prior to the Crosstown Classic between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox.
KISS Legacy
Induction and Honors
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, along with the original lineup of KISS, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. Their contributions to music and culture have been recognized in various ways, including receiving the Kennedy Center Honors in December 2025.
Tributes and Farewell Shows
The KISS family was recently touched by the passing of original guitarist Ace Frehley, who died in October 2022 at the age of 74. KISS held its final shows in December 2023 at Madison Square Garden, marking the end of an era for the legendary band. The last performance on December 2, 2023, was streamed live on pay-per-view, allowing fans worldwide to join in the farewell celebration.
The End of the Road Tour
KISS launched its farewell tour, titled “End Of The Road,” in January 2019. However, the tour faced interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, delaying its originally scheduled conclusion of July 17, 2021, in New York City. The tour was initially announced following their performance of “Detroit Rock City” on “America’s Got Talent” in September 2018.
Future Projects
In early 2024, KISS sold its entire music catalog, likeness, and brand name to Swedish company Pophouse Entertainment. Exciting new projects are underway, including a biopic, an avatar show, and a KISS-themed experience, with Simmons and Stanley playing integral roles in their development in collaboration with Pophouse.
Conclusion
The ceremonial first pitch thrown by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley is a testament to the enduring legacy of KISS, blending the worlds of rock music and sports. As the band steps into a new chapter with various upcoming projects, their influence on both music and pop culture remains as powerful as ever.
FAQs
Who threw the ceremonial first pitch at the Angels vs. Royals game?
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS threw the ceremonial first pitch at the game.
How many pitches did Gene Simmons throw before getting it right?
Gene Simmons threw a total of four pitches before successfully completing the throw.
When was KISS inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
KISS was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
What was the name of KISS’s farewell tour?
The farewell tour was titled “End Of The Road.”
What future projects are in development for KISS?
KISS is working on a biopic, an avatar show, and a KISS-themed experience in collaboration with Pophouse Entertainment.
