Former NFL Quarterback Rodney Peete Steals the Show at Dodgers-Cubs Game in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan – The Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs kicked off the 2025 Major League Baseball season in dramatic fashion at the Tokyo Dome, but it wasn’t just the on-field action that grabbed headlines. During Wednesday’s contest, a former NFL star stole the spotlight, much to the chagrin of Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy.
The incident occurred when a foul ball soared towards the stands near the third base line. Muncy, ever the competitor, attempted to make a play on the ball, reaching over the netting in hopes of securing the out. However, fate had other plans. The ball landed squarely in the glove of a spectator, eliciting cheers from the surrounding crowd and a visible look of frustration from Muncy.
That spectator? None other than former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, a seasoned athlete with a history deeply intertwined with both baseball and football. Peete, whose son RJ serves as a clubhouse attendant for the Dodgers, displayed the reflexes of a seasoned pro, coolly snagging the foul ball with practiced ease. The moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, adding an unexpected layer of excitement to the international season opener.
Peete’s presence at the game was hardly a surprise, given his ties to the Dodgers organization and his son’s role with the team. However, his unexpected catch turned him into an instant celebrity among the Tokyo Dome crowd. He handled the attention with grace and humor, acknowledging the cheers and offering a smile to those around him.
Peete’s impressive athletic background adds another dimension to the story. He enjoyed a successful NFL career spanning from 1989 to 2004, playing for several teams including the Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Oakland Raiders, and Carolina Panthers. Known for his strong arm and leadership qualities, Peete was a respected figure in the league.
What many may not know is that Peete was also a highly regarded baseball prospect. A multi-sport athlete in high school and at the University of Southern California (USC), he was drafted by Major League Baseball teams on four separate occasions (1984, 1988, 1989, and 1990). Each time, however, he chose to pursue his passion for football, ultimately leading him to a lengthy and impactful NFL career.
The irony of Peete, a former baseball draftee, preventing a current MLB player from making a catch was not lost on observers. It served as a playful reminder of the diverse paths athletes take and the unexpected ways their talents can manifest.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the story, Peete’s wife, Holly Robinson-Peete, an accomplished actress and singer, shared a video of the incident on her Instagram account. With a touch of humor, she apologized to Muncy for her husband’s interference, explaining that the foul ball "was coming straight for my head!" Her post quickly garnered attention, further amplifying the buzz surrounding the unexpected moment.
Beyond his family connections and athletic prowess, Peete also maintains a professional relationship with the Dodgers organization. He currently works for the Dodgers radio station AM 570 LA, providing commentary and analysis for the team. This role further solidifies his connection to the team and its fanbase.
Peete later explained that fans seated in his area of the stadium were provided with gloves and helmets due to the low netting protecting the stands. This precautionary measure, intended to ensure fan safety, inadvertently contributed to Peete’s successful catch. He was simply prepared for the situation, armed with a glove and the reflexes of a seasoned athlete.
While Muncy may have been momentarily frustrated by the interference, the incident ultimately added a memorable and lighthearted moment to the Dodgers-Cubs game. It showcased the unpredictable nature of live sports and the potential for unexpected encounters.
Ultimately, the Dodgers emerged victorious, defeating the Cubs by a score of 6-3. The win secured a series sweep for the Dodgers, marking a successful start to their 2025 campaign in Tokyo. However, the game will likely be remembered as much for Peete’s unexpected catch as for the on-field performance.
The incident serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of baseball and its ability to create moments of both high drama and unexpected levity. From the crack of the bat to the cheers of the crowd, baseball has a unique way of capturing the imagination and creating lasting memories. In this case, it also provided a stage for a former NFL quarterback to remind everyone that he still has the hands for the game.
The USA TODAY app encourages readers to stay informed with award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, and the eNewspaper.
The Dodgers win and Peete’s catch were undoubtedly the highlights of opening day in Tokyo.
