347 Game: @ Etna H.S. 2 (1/2)

Shortly after, Garret had Alex, the new catcher, drag Kyle to the bench under the pretense of going over the game plan. It seemed to help Kyle get his mind focused on the task at hand.

Noah let out a sigh of relief. ”Did not expect that reaction. At all.”

I nodded in agreement. ”What a crazy thing to get upset over. He must really like her if he cares what his parents think.”

”Guess so.” He grinned. ”I really wanna know how Mom's taking it.” He spotted the confusion on my face. ”Mom's are usually protective of their boys when it comes to girlfriends. Something like a momma bear watching over her cubs.”

Usually. Guess there's room for error for moms like mine.

Noah noticed my downcast attitude. ”Oh, Jake! Don't worry! I'm sure if you get a girlfriend, Mom would be overprotective of you too!” He laughed as he directed me to our bags. ”A mom doesn't have to be blood-related to be protective of you. Just look at me! I'm not related to you, but still protective, right?”

I nodded. True.

”Now get your helmet on, young man.” He wagged his finger at me, and spoke like he was imitating his mom.

I laughed, then got ready for my at-bat. I put my hat down, helmet on, then grabbed my bat. ”It's a little weird not hitting after you.” I told him. ”And batting third instead of second.”

”Yea.” Noah sighed. ”I've been demoted to sixth.”

”At least it's not last..?” I offered.

Noah nodded. ”Right! Okay, let's get going. You go to your spot and I'll wait here.”

I nodded, gripped my bat in one hand, and moved to the dugout entrance. A few of the guys told me 'good luck' and I nodded in response. I really like this new team atmosphere. Not as hostile.

”Boys.” Coach called out. ”Two seconds. I just want you to know that although our bench is small today, I won't hesitate to replace anyone not trying their best. Understand?”

”Yes!” The team chorused together.

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”Good.” He nodded in satisfaction.

It didn't take long for the game to officially start. Unlike our school and others we had been to, Etna didn't have an announcer. The players just took the field and the umpire waved Jason up to bat after their two minute warmup.

Jason was jittery, either because he's our new leadoff guy or because he became the starting third baseman for now. Coach had removed Chris from the team so there wasn't much competition. Even Coach said that Sean would be the utility infielder for when we need him, so that lessened the competition for his position.