**Fans Caution Chase Elliott Against Risks of Throwing Out First Pitch Amid Injury Concerns**
Chase Elliott, star driver for Hendrick Motorsports, is making headlines as he prepares to throw the first pitch for the Atlanta Braves before the Quaker State 400 playoff race in Atlanta. While this ceremonial honor is a significant moment, it has sparked concern among his fans due to past injury issues associated with Hendrick Motorsports drivers.
Elliott’s teammates have faced their own injury woes, with Alex Bowman missing multiple races last season after injuring his back in a sprint car event. This has heightened fans’ anxieties about Elliott potentially suffering a freak injury that could jeopardize his 2024 season, which has otherwise been strong.
The risks of seemingly minor activities leading to injury are evident. Fans are recalling instances like Lane Riggs, who dislocated his shoulder celebrating a Truck Series win, as a cautionary tale. Some fans suggest altering ceremonial pitches to minimize risks, proposing a “last pitch” instead of a first pitch as a humorous yet cautious adjustment.
Elliott’s concern isn’t unwarranted, given his history of shoulder problems. Earlier this year, he discussed ongoing shoulder issues, admitting that the discomfort had persisted for about 8 to 10 years. This past offseason, Elliott underwent surgery to address a torn labrum, a significant injury that had been troubling him.
The comparison with other athletes facing injuries in similar scenarios, such as Croix Bethune of the Washington Spirit who tore her meniscus throwing out the first pitch at a Nationals game, underscores the potential dangers of such seemingly benign activities.
Despite these concerns, Elliott remains excited about the opportunity. He has not thrown a baseball since his shoulder surgery and views the experience as a memorable one, expressing his enthusiasm and appreciation for the chance to participate.
However, fans on social media are cautious, worried that even a minor mishap could derail Elliott’s championship aspirations. They’ve prepared messages expressing concern about the potential for injury, highlighting the fragile balance between celebrating significant moments and maintaining peak performance in a demanding sport.
Elliott’s decision to go through with the pitch reflects his passion for the Braves and desire to create lasting memories, despite the risks involved. As the season progresses, his supporters will be keeping a close eye on his health and hoping for a smooth continuation of his racing career.
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