187 Between Games (1/2)

The celebration was cut off by the coaches and umpires as they wanted us to shake the other teams hand to show some sportsmanship. Our team lined up on the first baseline and they lined up on the third baseline. Zeke led us and both teams started to pass by one another at home and simply shared a high five. Halfway through, my hand started to hurt and feel heavy. I wanted to put it down to rest, but Noah enlightened me from behind, saying that it would be disrespectful.

And the end of their line was the coaches and I once again came across the familiar old man.

”Jake Hollander.” The old man stopped me, causing Noah to bump me in the back. I started to fall forward, but the old man put a hand on my shoulder to steady me. ”No need to be nervous, I just thought I should commit your name to memory.”

”That's just a part of Jake's personality.” Noah cut in and commented on my behalf.

”Unusual kid.” He let out a laugh and I looked down at the ground in embarrassment. That's just the way I am, okay? His laughing stopped after a few seconds. ”I was surprised that we were able to give you, your first out. A fly out. Would have been better if it was a strikeout.”

”We're not impressed with your underhanded ways.” Noah rebuffed. ”Trying to tease a freshman isn't very polite.”

”And neither is talking back to your elders.” Our own coach rested his arms around our shoulders. He started to push us along. ”Good to see you Porter, but I have to prepare my boys for the next game. If you're still interested then you can watch from the stands.” Coach didn't wait for a reply, even though I doubt he would get one. He just directed us back to our dugout where the team was already packing up.

”Grab your gear.” Coach commanded. ”We'll do a postgame meeting and a pregame meeting before I let you boys get some food.”

We did as we were told and followed our teammates in packing up the bags, and moving out of the dugout. I bundled back up with my sweatshirt and Mr. Atkins jacket, and followed Noah to where the team decided to gather in an empty bleacher.

Coach cleared his throat as he stood before us and after we finally settled down, he started to speak. ”It was a good outing. A win, plus no throwing or fielding errors.” He glanced down at Noah beside me. ”There was a questionable play, but overall, I'm satisfied. Sunset Preparatory is a division above us, and has more access to players due to private school funding.”

The team started to get rowdy and some smash talking started in the back.

”Quiet.” Zeke spoke up from his spot in the front row, eyes on coach.

The team went silent and coach started speaking again. ”The next game is at 4pm, so we'll be having to deal with twilight towards the second half of the game. Take note of the suns position when we start warmups.”

Mr. Miller stepped forward from the side, and gave Coach his smartphone, with something obviously pulled up.