Kyle Freeland was already in Florida as the Colorado Rockies set out on a road trip starting in Miami.

The lefty lucked out; with an off-day on Monday, he jolted up the Sunshine State to see his favorite hockey team play in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final. Denver’s 9News caught up with Kyle before the Colorado Avalanche and Lightning’s big game. He told the network Cale Makar is his favorite player and shared his excitement about the burgundy and blue.

Well look who we found in Tampa! 👀 @Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland (@KFREE_21) stopped by to join @ArielleOrsuto live on 9NEWS before @Avalanche Game 3! 👏#9sports #GoAvsGo #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/96EIrABKZR

— 9NEWS Sports Denver (@9NEWSSports) June 20, 2022

Freeland is a Denver native, a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School. He’s in his sixth MLB season and signed a five-year extension earlier this year to stay in the Mile High City.

The hometown kid and fan-favorite pitched Friday night, his 13th start of the season. Freeland has a 4.46 ERA in 2022, a touch above his career average.

Hey, @Rockies, know this guy? pic.twitter.com/oasQ33XEFJ

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) June 21, 2022