Dirk Nowitzki will get the opportunity to throw a ceremonial first pitch at the World Series, after all.

Baseball commissioner Bud Selig gave his blessing Wednesday to Nowitzki taking the mound before a Series game in Arlington. SportsBusiness Journal’s Eric Fisher tweeted that the Texas Rangers have confirmed Nowitzki will throw his pitch before Game 3 on Saturday when the Rangers host the St. Louis Cardinals.

MLB initially removed Nowitzki from a list of prospective pitchers submitted by the Rangers. Baseball spokesman Pat Courtney told reporters Selig was not aware of the original decision and subsequently determined Nowitzki should be invited.

“It was never brought to the commissioner’s attention,” baseball spokesman Courtney said, according to USA Today. “He said if that’s what the Rangers want, that’s fine.”

Sources told ESPNDallas.com that MLB’s rejection of Nowitzki was a gesture of solidarity toward NBA owners who are locking out Nowitzki and the other players. Courtney strongly disputed the claim.

“MLB absolutely denies that any part in selecting the first ball pitcher had anything to do with the current labor situation in the NBA,” Courtney said, according to ESPNDallas.com. “You want the club’s input in what makes sense for them and then we talk about what makes sense for the team and a good broad-base national appeal.

“It’s a nice problem to have that you get a list of 10 or 15 names and you work your way through them. We know Nowitzki’s been at the games, and that’s wonderful. We’re glad he’s there.”

Nowitzki tweeted after learning he had been turned down: “Thanks every1 on the support regarding first pitch. Its ok.Mlb is too old school. I will still be there to support our boys. Let’s get game1″ The star forward has yet to comment on MLB’s change of heart.