Was former President George W. Bush’s World Series ceremonial pitch a ball or a strike?

Texas Rangers Hall of Fame catcher Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez had three words for former United States President George W. Bush ahead of his ceremonial World Series first pitch Friday.

“Don’t bounce it,” Rodriguez said speaking to the media before the game. It’s the same advice given by Yankee shortstop Derek Jeter before the Bush threw out the first pitch in the 2001 World Series.

Unfortunately, Bush didn’t heed Jeter and Pudge’s advice. His pitch was low and outside bouncing about a foot in front of home plate.

Bush’s pitch kicked off the 2023 World Series between the American League Champion Texas Rangers and the National League Champion Arizona Diamondbacks.

This is the fourth time Bush has thrown out the ceremonial first pitch at the World Series. He also threw out pitches during the 2001, 2010, and 2017 series.

The 2001 series was last time the Arizona Diamondbacks made it to the Fall Classic. They upset the heavily favored New York Yankees on Luis Gonzalez’s game-winning hit in the bottom of the ninth of Game 7.

This is Bush’s third appearance at a Rangers playoff game this postseason. He and his wife Laura attended Game 3 of the American League Divisional Series and ALCS at Globe Life Field.

Bush owned a stake in the team and was managing general partner from 1989 until he was elected Texas governor in 1994.