421 Game VS Quincy HS (1) (2/2)

"The only conversation I want to hear is concerning our game today." Zeke declared after walking in, just a few steps behind. "Everyone's focus should be on winning today. 100%." He looked at me. "What should we be thinking about?"

"..." Seeing that he was waiting for an answer, I spoke up. "On how I can help the team win today..?"

Zeke nodded, then looked to Garret. "What are you thinking about?"

Garret flexed. "That I should be ready to pitch today just in case we need a strong closer."

"Hey!" Dave shouted. "Don't be jinxing me." He looked to Zeke. "I'm thinking about striking every batter out!"

"I want to get a hit today!" Jason yelled out.

Soon the whole team was calling out what they wanted to accomplish today. Zeke pumped everyone up by putting our focus on a team goal: win today's game.

Coach didn't need to say any words of encouragement throughout warmups. We were all geared up to go.

1 2B Jake Hollander

2 LF Garret Knudsen

3 RF Mahki Holstrom

4 CF Zeke Atkins

5 1B Julian Wilson

6 SS Noah Atkins

7 3B Jason Morris

8 C Alex Farrell

9 P Dave Atkins

The lineup was given and we took the field to start off the game. Dave completed his warmup with a smile and not a shred of nervousness could be seen. He was a different kind of calm compared to Bryce, who is always eager to pitch. Dave just has the composure of a good pitcher. And he really showed it against the first three batters of Quincy High School.

Dave struck out the side with nine pitches! That's three in a row, three times. He pumped his fist as he walked back to the dugout, wearing a giant grin. It's a stark contrast compared to last time he pitched against Quincy: two doubles and a ripped nail that took him off the mound for a couple of weeks.

His energy and excitement could be felt in the dugout. I grabbed my bat and helmet to start our offense.