San Francisco 49ers punter Mitch Wishnowsky brought a unique twist to ceremonial duties at the San Francisco Giants’ home opener on Friday, opting for a “first punt” instead of the traditional first pitch.
Wishnowsky, who has been the 49ers’ punter since 2019 and previously won the Ray Guy Award at Utah, showcased his punting skills by launching a football from the outfield of Oracle Park into McCovey Cove, providing fans with an unexpected spectacle ahead of the Giants’ matchup against the San Diego Padres.
Adding to the excitement of Wishnowsky’s punt was a close call as the football narrowly missed a nearby kayaker, landing just inches away from the watercraft.
Despite Wishnowsky’s football expertise, he’s no stranger to football’s biggest stage, having competed in two Super Bowls with the 49ers, including this past February’s Super Bowl LVIII.
Interestingly, Wishnowsky’s presence seemed to bring some of the 49ers’ success to the Giants, who secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Padres with a walk-off double in the ninth inning. Thairo Estrada emerged as the hero, smashing a ball into left field and allowing Matt Chapman to score the winning run, marking the second walk-off of Estrada’s career.
