WASHINGTON - So, President Barack Obama, you ready to throw out that first pitch at the All-Star Game?
Not quite yet.
"Well, I think it's fair to say that I want to loosen up my arm a little bit," Obama said in the Oval Office when asked if he planned to practice.
The president will take the mound Tuesday night in St. Louis for baseball's signature summer moment.
Clearly, Obama is aware of what he wants to avoid: bouncing the ball to home plate.
He recalled his strategy when, as a U.S. senator, he threw the ceremonial first pitch during Game 2 of the 2005 American League Championship Series.
"I just wanted to keep it high," Obama said. He said his pitch wasn't too fast that night, but "did clear the plate."
SportsTalk: Albert Pujols signs with the Angels and Prince Fielder joins the Tigers. Which team is better now?
DeMarco: Plug in a well-heeled ownership group and negotiate one of those mega-bucks TV deals that are going around, and the Dodgers could become the west coast version of the New York Yankees or Boston Red Sox.
Video |
Advice for Obama July 14: Joe Torre, Ryan Howard and Albert Pujols give advice to President Obama on how to throw out a first pitch. |
Slideshow |
The 2009 All-Star Game Highlights from baseball’s big event, including the Home Run Derby and the rosters for the AL and NL teams. more photos |
HardballTalk headlines |
Interactive |
Slideshow |
Unbreakable records in baseball A look at the most unbreakable records in baseball including Nolan Ryan's seven no-hitters. |
Slideshow |
The top tools of baseball You hear a lot about the tools of baseball, but who are the best hitters, fielders and pitchers? We break it down. more photos |