CHICAGO, IL (June 9, 2008) The Chicago Cubs, owners of the best record in Major League Baseball, will welcome World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz to throw out the pitch this Tuesday night, June 10th, prior to the opening game of their three game home series against the Atlanta Braves. Diaz will take to the mound approximately 15 minutes prior to the 7:05pm local start.

Said Diaz, “This truly is an honor. Being Chicago born and raised on the North Side, the Cubs became my favorite team as a young boy. I’ve loved going to Cubs games since I was a kid. When they called I was thrilled to have them invite me and I’m very excited to the head to mound on Tuesday night to throw out the first pitch.”

Continued Diaz, “The team has been very supportive of my career and I’m anxious to share my best wishes with them for the rest of this season.”

Diaz is currently training in Chicago for his world title defense against THE MEXICUTIONER set for Saturday, June 28th at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada

Diaz regularly updates his blog with the Chicago Sun-Times with more information on the fight and his training. The blog can be viewed at www.sun-times/com/sports/boxing.

Additional information can also be viewed at his website www.diazboxing.com and at www.toprank.com

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions, Pacquiao vs. Diaz will take place Saturday, June 28th, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada. The 12-round lightweight championship bout will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 P.M. ET /6 P.M. PT.

Remaining tickets for Pacquiao vs.Diaz, priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, can be purchased at the Mandalay Bay box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith