114 Game Three: San Marino 9 (1/2)

After the pitcher was able to throw some off the mound to the catcher, Julian stepped up to the plate, ready to go. The new pitcher must have been a senior, because he had a better temperament and wasn't in any hurry. Even though they were down by six runs, the pitcher stayed collected. He was able to put Julian in a tough spot with a 1-2 count, (one ball, two strikes), getting him to swing on a pitch that came inside. Julian's connection went straight to the third baseman, who threw to the catcher at home, who then tagged the plate, then threw to the first baseman. A 5-2-3 double play to end the fourth inning.

I jogged back to the dugout to switch my gear. Noah stared at me the whole time I stood by my bag. After I put my hat on, he reached out for me, but I sidestepped.

”Jake.” He whined. ”Stop ignoring me.”

I brushed him off and went back on the field. I wasn't sure how to face Noah just yet, so I went back to default and treated him like everyone else. Wary of any actions he might take.

Dave got back on the mound to start the fifth inning. Even though he was hit by a pitch at his at-bat, he was on fire on the mound. He struck out batters five, six and seven like they were little leaguers. He strutted back to the dugout like he was a king.

”Dave you're out.” Coach said once we got back to the dugout. ”Get a jacket on and do a proper cook down.”

The king deflated and turned into a peasant pleading for leniency. ”But coach...I'm pitching a shutout.”

Zeke came in from the outfield just at that moment. He slapped the back of Dave's head. ”Don't talk back. Get a jacket on. Coach says you're done.”

I started to ease away to get away from this argument.

”But I'm doing so well.” Dave pouted as he rubbed his head.

”We're up by six. Your pitch count is under 50 so you'll be eligible to pitch on Wednesday. Do you want to start the season opener or not?” Coach asked impatiently.

Dave perked up right away. ”I'll go get my jacket on!” He hopped about the dugout excitedly.