Pudge tribute set for Saturday at Marlins Park

MIAMI — You can call it the ceremonial first throw out.

The famous collision at the plate when J.T. Snow plowed into Ivan Rodriguez.

The Marlins are simplying referring to it as a tribute to catcher Ivan Rodriguez.

On Saturday night, before Miami faces the Nationals at Marlins Park, Rodriguez will be honored.

Rodriguez, who retired this year, will be recognized on the field. Instead of having Rodriguez throw out the first pitch, he will re-create the famous play at the plate that ended the 2003 NL Division Series.

In a memorable finale, the Marlins eliminated the Giants when Jeff Conine in left field threw a one-hopper to the plate that Rodriguez gathered in time to tag out a charging J.T. Snow.

Snow plowed over the former Marlins catcher, who held onto the ball, securing the series win.

Conine, now a Marlins special assistant, will go to left field on Saturday night and throw home to Rodriguez.

Trivia buffs will recall Jeffrey Hammonds singled to left off Ugueth Urbina in the ninth. Snow tried to score the tying run from second, but the series ended in dramatic fashion with one of the most famous playoff collisions at the plate.

The first pitch on Saturday is set for 7:10 p.m.

– Joe Frisaro