Chief tosses to Braves

Miko to throw out first pitch in AtlantaIf you are watching the Atlanta Braves Saturday and see a familiar face on the pitching mound, don't adjust your television set.

Miko Beasley Denson, leader of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, will be throwing out the first pitch when the Braves take on the Seattle Mariners. Denson, who was a pitcher when he played baseball while growing up, says he is ready for the challenge.Why this is happening:The tribe and the Atlanta Braves have been working on a promotion for the Golden Moon Casino. Billboards promoting the Golden Moon along with the Silver Star Casino, the Dancing Rabbit Golf Course and the Geyser Falls Water Park have been placed on the suite-level at Turner Field.

"We want to let the people in the Atlanta area to know what is available to them, all within a 5 hour drive," Denson said.Comment:  I wonder if the Choctaws will say anything about the Braves' stereotypical logo and "tomahawk chop." Probably not, since that would be bad for business.

For more on the subject, see Team Names and Mascots.