CIF Quarterfinal: Northwood HS (6)

Top of the fourth. Mahki struck out swinging; he just couldn't keep up with the pitcher's speed. Kelvin got lucky, connecting on a pitch way outside. It was a bloop single over the first baseman but like Noah says, the stats sheet doesn't care how it looks. Jason popped out to the second baseman, keeping Kelvin on first. Then Noah ended it by grounding out to the third baseman. 

I waited by our bags for Noah to come back as the rest of the team hurried to take the field. He placed his helmet down and put on his hat. 

"I'm fine, I don't need any words of encouragement." He told me plainly, then led the way to take the field. "I know my limits. This pitcher is out of my league."

I was glad he didn't need any words, especially since I didn't have any. I felt like everyone I ran into these past few months always had something to say to cheer me up. I wanted to reciprocate, but...I lacked in the conversation department.