Evan Longoria Returns for World Series Game 4 First Pitch

Evan Longoria will throw the ceremonial first pitch before Game 4 of the World Series at Tropicana Field on Tuesday, bringing a central figure from Tampa Bay’s first pennant-winning team back for another championship occasion. Grammy-winning recording artist NE-YO is scheduled to perform the national anthem.

The pregame assignments are included in Major League Baseball’s ceremonial announcement. The Rays enter the game trailing Milwaukee 3–0, so the evening could end with the Brewers’ first World Series championship or a Tampa Bay victory that extends the series.

Longoria won the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2008, the season the Rays first reached the World Series. Tampa Bay retired his No. 3 and inducted him into its Hall of Fame in July 2026, the Tampa Free Press reported. His return connects Tuesday’s ceremony with that earlier franchise milestone.

Hailey Riggs will provide American Sign Language interpretation during the anthem. The United States Central Command Joint Color Guard will present the colors. The announced program also includes a Stand Up To Cancer placard tribute after the fifth inning and recognition of the Utah Talons, the 2026 Athletes Unlimited Softball League champions.

For attending fans, gates are scheduled to open at 5 p.m. Eastern. The local report says parking access requires prepaid passes and urges ticket holders to allow time for entry. Ceremonial activities precede the actual game; the first-pitch appearance is not Longoria returning to the playing roster.

Milwaukee earned its clinching opportunity with Monday’s 10–1 victory. Jackson Chourio had four hits, and an eight-run fifth inning separated the teams. TSP’s Game 3 report details the rally and Robert Gasser’s six scoreless innings.

The Rays must win Tuesday to keep the World Series going. Longoria’s ceremonial appearance and NE-YO’s anthem are confirmed pregame plans, while the championship outcome remains open.