674 V2 ch146 (1/2)

After breakfast, we left the cafeteria, heading for our designated practice field. I did my best to stay completely focused on learning from Chandler. He was patient with our whole group, explaining what we should be taking away from each drill. He didn't seem as intimidating as he was on day one.

”It's hard to believe that tomorrow is the last day of camp.” Travis sighed as we dragged our feet to the cafeteria for lunch. Just because Chandler was more approachable, didn't mean the practices became any easier. ”I'm excited and sad at the same time.”

Noah nodded. ”Yea, same. It's been fun playing all day, every day. Our high school has a camp next week for all levels including incoming freshmen, but it just won't be the same.”

”You guys are so depressing.” Adam rolled his eyes. ”There will always be more camps. Winter ID camps are becoming more popular for warmer climate areas. Sign up for one of those.”

”Is that what you're doing?” Travis asked.

Adam nodded. ”I'm interested in going to Arizona State University. They're having one specifically for juniors and seniors so they're looking at recruits that are preparing for graduation.”

”I'm not really interested in college ID camps.” Noah shrugged. ”Maybe a skills camp. That would be fun.” He looked to me. ”What do you think?”

”Okay.” I nodded.

Noah was taken aback for a second, but then he grinned. ”That's what I'm talking about! Showing some enthusiasm to become the best player.”

”Was that considered enthusiasm..?” I heard Travis whisper to Adam.

”Noah. Jake.” Zeke called for us as we got closer to the cafeteria. He was standing just outside the doors with his arms crossed over his chest. Adam and Travis subconsciously straightened up at the sight of him. ”Come here for a minute.”

Noah looked at the other two. ”Go in without us. We'll find you at the tables.”

”Sure.” Travis nodded. He and Adam held their curiousity back and went inside the cafeteria without us.

Zeke, Noah, and I moved off to the side to stay out of the way of the players coming for lunch.

Zeke looked me over. ”How did you feel about last night?”

”Horrible.” I answered honestly.

Noah narrowed his eyes. ”Are you purposely picking on Jake?”

Zeke shook his head. ”This wasn't my idea. Rhys came up with it on his own. He thought it might inspire you.”

My lips twitched. ”Yea. Inspired.”

Zeke raised an eyebrow. ”How'd it go?”

”Rhys didn't tell you?” I asked, tilting my head.

He shook his head. ”Haven't seen him yet. It's been a hectic morning.”

I sighed. ”I feel like I lost the only thing I was good at.”

”What do you think I will struggle with?” Noah asked, interested.

Zeke's grin got bigger. ”Aren't you already struggling with your batting? And that's only at the high school level.”

”Ughh.” Noah groaned, distressed. ”Maybe I should go to some kind of batting clinic during winter break if I keep struggling like this. I don't want to lose my varsity spot.”

”You won't lose it.” I assured him.

Zeke let us go after talking for a little bit longer. During lunch, I used my free time to look up the San Jose Giants minor league team, trying to find their roster. From there I used their first names and positions to get their last names. With their full names, I looked up more in-depth news and analyses. Unfortunately, with them being minor leaguers, there wasn't a lot I could read. Just their prospect ranking and stat numbers.

”Jake, where's your game at this afternoon?” Landon asked.

I looked up from my phone. ”Both of my games are in the stadium.”

”Damn. So lucky.” Landon sighed. ”I want to play in the stadium all the time. It really gives you the feeling that you've made it. You got that next level.”

Ansar smirked. ”You must have a small stadium at your high school.”

”It can't even be called a stadium.” Landon told him. ”It only has one set of bleachers for each team's fans. My parents bring their own chairs and watch from the outfield.”

Ansar laughed. ”That's depressing. Do you even have lights for night games?”

”Yea, the mobile lighting that's only brought in after daylight savings. For the most part, we just practice in the afternoon.” He told him.

Their conversation continued as we finished eating. I occasionally pitched in whenever someone had a question for me. Overall, these guys were very friendly and easy to get along with. It might have something to do with the fact that we only get to see each other for a week.