George W. Bush throws out ceremonial first pitch before Game 1 of World Series

Former President George W. Bush throws out the ceremonial first pitch for Game 1 of the World Series as his former team, the Texas Rangers, faces off against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States, tossed the ceremonial first pitch before Game 1 of the World Series Friday night.

Bush took the bump at Globe Life Field, home of the team he used to own, the Texas Rangers, before they took on the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Bush took the field shortly after the national anthem, and Rangers legendary catcher Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez walked behind the plate to catch Bush's pitch.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Former U.S. President George W. Bush throws a ceremonial first pitch prior to Game 1 of the World Series between the Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Globe Life Field Oct. 27, 2023, in Arlington, Texas.  (Sam Hodde/Getty Images)

The throw from the front of the mound went into the dirt, but it was no match for the 13-time Gold Glover. The two embraced and exited the field to a rousing ovation.

It was the 12th time Bush has thrown out a ceremonial first pitch at an MLB game, and his fifth time as former president. It was his first ceremonial first pitch since the 2017 World Series at Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. That was also the last time a president, current or former, had thrown out a first pitch until Friday. 

Former Texas Ranger Ivan Rodriguez and former U.S. President George W. Bush meet during a ceremonial first pitch prior to Game 1 of the World Series between the Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Globe Life Field Oct. 27, 2023, in Arlington, Texas.  (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

While Bush toed an MLB rubber 11 times