On another dusty field,

the next batter swings and misses
leaving it up to me.

3 swings is all I have,
3 chances to win the game,
3 players ready to run,
11 teammates counting on me.

I swing that bat around
as hard as I can
but to no avail,
strike 1

I step out of the box
swing.
We are down two points
1 hit is all it takes.

Everyone is pacing
jumping
but not one word is said.

I take a breath,
step in the box
the pitcher’s left leg goes up
right arm goes down.

I see the ball
know what I must do.
One sharp swing
one loud crack,
and the ball is gone

gone, over their heads
gone, in the outfield
gone, lost in the grass.
Everyone looks and cheers
and me? I just run.

First base
second 
third.

Final sprint,
I see the ball hurtling in
catcher standing on home
ready to stop me.

I can’t believe it!
He dropped it!
I run home
grand slam to end
but we aren't done.

One more game.