115 Game Three: San Marino end (1/2)

Once inside the dugout, the team started to pat me on the back, shoulder, head, wherever they could reach me. They congratulated me on the good play. I shyly nodded and made my way to my bag. I was going to get to have one more at bat at the least.

Noah looked at me, when I approached, with a sad expression. ”Now can we talk?”

I shook my head and grabbed my helmet and bat. I had to go to the on deck circle. Daniel was already up to bat and I was next. Daniel ended up flying out to right field, keeping his hitless streak strong.

Before I stepped in the box, I looked for Zeke, but he wasn't in his usual spot, so I stuck with what I know...get a walk. We're up 6-1 so I didn't put in the effort to foul every pitch. Only fouled a few to keep the count going so I could earn my walk.

I made it to first, but my stay didn't last long. Mahki grounded out into a double play, effectively ending the inning. I jogged back to the dugout and got my glove. Noah didn't try speaking to me this time; just watched me as I traded in my equipment.

When I jogged back out to my position, I saw a familiar face on the mound: Garret! He caught me looking at him and grinned. ”Watch me in action, Bambi. I'll shut these guys down to end the game without a sweat.”

I gave a little nod and moved to my position. Garret was the fastest pitcher I had faced in the little amount of time that I've been playing. I didn't know if the cutter was his only other pitch besides the fastball, but it wouldn't matter. Most of San Marino were right handed and wouldn't stand a chance.

After a moment, I realized that Kelvin was also replaced. It took me a moment to remember the other seniors name, Jordan. He was specifically only Garret's catcher.

Garret did what he set out to do. He got all three batters to strike out swinging on nine pitches. He didn't give them any mercy and completely shut them up and shut them out. With us leading at the middle of the seventh inning, the umpire called game and we didn't have to bat a pointless half inning since we already won.

The team crowded the dugout and happily spoke to one another. I quietly put my gear in my bag and was the first one to leave the dugout. Or so I thought.

”Trying to sneak away again, huh?” Noah was waiting just outside the dugout with his bag already on his shoulders, all packed up. ”No escaping me this time. Just tell me what's wrong already.”

I took in a deep breath of air. Then let out, ”You intentionally harmed someone.”

Noah blinked. Then blinked again.Then let out a laugh. ”That's what you're mad about? But that's just apart of the game!” He continued to laugh, but I couldn't stand it. I walked past him. ”Hey, Wait!” He reached out for me, but I dodged.