"That's basically what I'm doing when I'm tapping them - getting my toes to the end of my shoes"

Nomar Garciaparra is describing the practice of tapping his toes to the end of his shoes before he steps up to the plate to bat. This is a common practice among baseball gamers, as it assists them to focus and enter the right mindset for the game. By tapping his toes to the end of his shoes, Garciaparra is essentially preparing himself mentally and physically for the upcoming at-bat. He is focusing his attention on the job at hand and getting himself into the right mindset to carry out at his best. This practice is a method for him to focus himself and get into the best headspace before stepping up to the plate. It is a way for him to make sure that he is all set to carry out at his best and provide it his all.