Chapter 823 - V3 ch58 (VS Balboa HS 6) (2/2)

Kyle nodded and got back into position. As did we.

Kyle continued his face off with the eighth batter, who ultimately hit a grounder to Noah at short. Noah checked the runner on second before throwing to Sean at first. The runner at second base stayed where he was.

Two outs.

The ninth batter was formally the pitcher, who had two singles, but now it was someone new. A pinch hitter. He blasted a ball to center field. Garret went back to the warning track and made a great catch to save our lead.

”Only hurt for a second.” I kicked out my foot and shook it for him to see. ”Probably going to bruise.”

Coach frowned. ”Let me see.”

We went to the bench and sat down. Coach checked my movements before pulling the sock down to take a look. Drew wasn't here so Coach had to examine me himself or go get the tournament trainer.

Coach looked me in the eye. ”What do you think? Can you stay in the game? I don't want to pull my best batter in such a close game.”

”It's okay, really.” I told him, pulling my sock back up.

Coach gave me a small nod. ”Alright. Don't forget to ice it after the game.”

Bottom of the sixth, Jason grounded out to the first baseman. Korrey hit a single, but was stranded there because Mitchell hit a fly ball to center and Kyle struck out swinging. Since Coach let Kyle bat, he had the intention to let Kyle finish out this game.

Top of the seventh and top of their batting order. Kyle still had the speed. He struck out the first batter, getting him to swing and miss at a high fastball. The next guy up singled to left field, but it was okay. Kyle struck out the third batter and then jammed the cleanup hitter to hit a pop fly to Noah.

We won. I sighed with relief. 3-2. Closer than the first two games. Also the first time this tournament that we've given up runs.

”Great game, boys.” Coach nodded as he looked around. ”You guys really pulled through when it mattered.” He looked directly at Kyle. ”Especially you. Giving up hits is part of the game, but as long as you keep your cool, you can get out of it. I'm satisfied with the result.”

”But..?” Noah prompted.

Coach grinned. ”But, I see a lot of practice in our future. This tournament was a great way to see some holes in our playing. Both defensively and offensively.” He looked at me. ”Ice the ankle and make sure to keep it elevated so it doesn't swell.”

”I need ice too.” Kyle bumped me. ”Let's go together.”

”I'll send out a mass text for the team once we find out about tomorrow's game.” Coach said as we started to break up and pack up.

”I'll take the bags.” Noah told me and Kyle. ”You two don't have to drag them around. Just go get your ice and I'll catch up with Mom and Dad.”

Kyle grinned and patted Noah on the shoulder. ”So obedient today.”

Noah swatted his hand away. ”I can't say I would do this if you had lost the game with your control issues.”

Kyle lost his smile real quick and rolled his eyes. ”Brat.” He threw his arm around my shoulders. ”Let's go Jake.”