Blackhawks Legend Jonathan Toews Throws Out First Pitch at Cubs Game

The three-time Stanley Cup champion received a warm welcome from Cubs fans despite now playing for the Winnipeg Jets.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 2:19pm

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An extreme close-up of Jonathan Toews' throwing motion, captured in a vibrant, expressionist style with neon colors and rapid brushstrokes, conveying the raw energy and excitement of the ceremonial first pitch at Wrigley Field.A former Blackhawks captain returns to Chicago, bringing his trademark intensity to the mound at Wrigley Field.Chicago Today

Jonathan Toews, the longtime captain of the Chicago Blackhawks who won three Stanley Cups with the team, threw out the ceremonial first pitch at a Chicago Cubs game on Sunday. Toews, who now plays for the Winnipeg Jets, was welcomed warmly by Cubs fans despite his current affiliation with another team.

Why it matters

Toews is considered one of the most important sports figures in Chicago over the past two decades, having led the Blackhawks to their most successful era. His appearance at Wrigley Field, one of the city's most iconic sports venues, reinforces his enduring connection to the city and its passionate fan base.

The details

Wearing a No. 46 Ryan Dempster jersey, a nod to his friendship with the former Cubs pitcher, Toews threw out the first pitch before the Cubs' game against the Washington Nationals. Despite the Cubs ultimately losing the game, Toews' appearance was well-received by the crowd, who recognized his contributions to the Blackhawks' dynasty.

  • Toews threw out the first pitch on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • The Cubs-Nationals game took place on the opening day of the 2026 MLB season.

The players

Jonathan Toews

A former captain of the Chicago Blackhawks who won three Stanley Cups with the team. He is now playing for the Winnipeg Jets.

Ryan Dempster

A former pitcher for the Chicago Cubs who played alongside Toews during their time in the city.

Joey Wiemer

A player for the Washington Nationals who hit a three-run home run in the first inning of the game against the Cubs.

Alex Bregman

A player for the Washington Nationals who hit two home runs in the game against the Cubs.

Shota Imanaga

The starting pitcher for the Chicago Cubs in the game against the Nationals.

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What they’re saying

“Throwing today's first pitch at the @Cubs game, NUMBER 19 JONATHAN TOEWS ⚾️”

— Winnipeg Jets

What’s next

Toews and the Winnipeg Jets will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday night, giving the former Blackhawks captain a chance to play against his former team in his old home arena.

The takeaway

Jonathan Toews' appearance at Wrigley Field, one of Chicago's most iconic sports venues, demonstrates the enduring connection he has with the city and its passionate sports fans, even as he now plays for a different team. His warm reception highlights the lasting impact he had on the Blackhawks' success and his status as a beloved figure in Chicago sports history.