93 Game Two: Pleasant Valley 1 (1/2)

”This game will be a hit fest.” Coach declared. He had gathered us after the end of Pleasant Valley's win. ”We'll have James start on the mound.”

”What about me?” Dave asked, pointing at his face.

”You would be the worst choice for this game and up against this lineup.” Coach didn't hold back. ”As someone who pitches to contact, you should know giving up hits is common. What Kyle did earlier, was a freak moment. James Lohr, will you be ready to go?”

Dave looked down, acting pitifully.

James, a senior that I haven't spoken to personally, stood up. ”Yes coach. Can I go start warming up with Kelvin? I want to make sure all my pitches are in good form today.”

He waved them off. ”Start off with some light tossing first. We've still got an hour before we take the field for warmups.” He looked at the sun, which was above, but in February it would start setting soon. ”Playing a late afternoon game is more disadvantageous than an evening game in February. The sun will be setting during the game. Fielding will be difficult.”

James and Kelvin stood up and walked away with their gear. One of the assistant coaches went with them.

”You boys watch Pleasant Valley beat on Katella, right?” Coach looked down at us.

The guys all avoided eye contact and made some incoherent mumbles.

Coach sighed and shook his head in despair. ”Unbelievable. Just because you know how the game ended, doesn't mean that you know all that has happened.”

Zeke stood. ”Their strengths lie in their bats. Though they only gave up a few runs, that was presumably their best pitcher. That's why I suggested for James to start instead of Dave. James has more variety in his pitches and will be able to throw them off their rhythm.”

Coach nodded. ”Diligent observation.”

Dave looked even more upset, not liking what Zeke had to say. He sighed and flopped back, laying his head on his bag like a pillow.

”Pleasant Valley won't be pushovers with just a little strategy.” Coach continued, ignoring Dave's display of dissatisfaction. ”They were able to mercy rule Katella. Katella might not be a strong team, but they have solid foundations. We have to come out, swinging. I don't want any meaningless strikeouts.”

I sat up a little straighter. Swinging? Does this mean I'll be batting? I snuck a peek at Zeke. He caught me looking and shook his head. Still not time? I sighed and slouched.

”Jake.” Coach called. I straightened back up. ”Excellent fielding in game one. Your running and sliding still needs work.” The guys laughed and I blushed. ”I'm gonna have to make you sit this one. At least to begin with. There will be a lot of base runners so I won't you to focus on learning.”

I felt dejected once again.

Noah patted my shoulder, sympathetically, and whispered. ”It's a good learning opportunity.”

”Noah, you'll be sitting out as well.” Coach followed up. ”This will be more of a hitting contest and your batting isn't up to par.”