Nowitzki delivers the heat for Rangers
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Dallas Mavericks center Dirk Nowitzki threw out the first pitch before the Game 3 of the World Series on Saturday, delivering a low strike –- which was better than his performance in July after the Mavs won the NBA title.
“This time they told me to throw a four‑seam fastball,” said Nowitzki, who wore a blue Rangers jersey and cap. “I still don’t understand what that means. But I think that’s the grip I had. Or was it a two‑seam fastball? I forgot.”
As for the NBA lockout, Nowitzki said he’s disappointed there hasn’t been more progress in talks between the league and the players.
“We were all hoping with the mediator that something was going to happen, and just talks broke off, so it’s very unfortunate,” he said. “Hopefully we can get something going here anytime soon. But it doesn’t look good.
‘I’ve just been keeping in shape, working out, doing lots of cardio and lifting a little bit and running. If the season will start any time soon, I think I’ll be ready.”
Nowitzki grew up in Germany, where baseball is a minor sport. Still, he was asked if he would consider an offer to try out for the Rangers if the NBA lockout continued.
‘I would love that,’ he said before turning serious.
‘If there’s no settlement I’ll probably go back home soon, start training with my coach again,’ he said. ‘It’s time to really get back in the routine. Got to keep the options open, maybe see what’s going on overseas.’
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-- Kevin Baxter, reporting from Arlington, Texas