705 V2 ch177 (1/2)
”I would like to take the time to introduce our returning varsity members.” He said, making me tense. ”There are no guarantees that these guys will be on the varsity team again, but at least you will know what standard I'm looking at. Seniors, please stand up.”
Seven of the guys stood up, including the twins.
”I'll start with our pitchers.” Coach waved for the guys to come over. ”Garret Knudsen. He was our ace on the mound last season, winning King of the Hill.” He moved on to the identical twins. ”That's not to say that he's without competition. Kyle and David Atkins. They're both instrumental to our team, earning starting spots in the rotation. These three pitched on a state champion team. That means if you want a spot, you'll have to be better than a state champion.” He went on to introduce Tyler and Matt, who were both pitchers. Tanner and Jason were up next. ”Jason Morris is a returning starter at third base. Solid defense and steady at the plate. Tanner Erickson didn't start on the Varsity level at the beginning of last season, but after a midseason shuffle he joined the roster and earned some starts in the outfield.”
Coach looked around at those of us sitting down. ”This is a small reminder that you have to continue working hard and improving your game no matter what level you start at. Juniors, please join us.”
Bryce, Brian, Theo, Sean, and Mitchell all got a short introduction. Sean stood out the most with Coach talking about his versatility and how he won the award just a few months ago. Then it came down to the last of us...Noah and I. Coach grinned. ”Now very rarely do I have a freshman on the Varsity, but it's not impossible. Noah. Jake. Please stand up.”
Noah got up on his feet quickly and took a few strides to stand by Coach. Seeing his confidence, I tried to copy his movements, only to end up stumbling over my own feet.
Laughter broke out and only got louder as I straightened up and felt the blood rush to my face.
Even Coach let out a small chuckle. He put his hand on my shoulder and held me steady. ”Jake might seem a little clumsy, but he's the best hitter in our program. As a freshman he won the silver slugger award from the team, and Rookie of the Year award from the league, and was also Rookie of the Year for our whole division.” Coach grinned. ”If any pitcher wants a free pass to join the Varsity team, then strike out Jake.”
A wave of whispers and mumbles went through the players, from incoming freshmen to returning players on the lower-leveled teams. Coach let go of me and I tried to move calmly to my teammates.
Dave pulled me into a headlock. ”Look at you! Coach put a target on your back already! Better not slack off.”
I let out a heavy sigh. As long as the staring stops.
He let us sit back down, then let the JV coach take over to introduce his players. Noah and I stuck with our team as we took a knee. I tried to sit behind the twins, avoiding the looks from the bigger group.
Dave laughed at me, but didn't make it difficult for me to hide.