Chapter 40: Building Confidence

After practice, as Linus was gathering his gear, he felt a familiar hand clap him on the back. He turned to see Elias, standing there with his normal easygoing grin.

"Hey, don't let it get you down," Elias said, his tone upbeat. "Even the rest of us struggle with Lukas and Filip sometimes. You're doing great against the other pitchers, so don't overthink it. You'll get there."

Linus managed a small smile, appreciative of Elias's encouragement. "Thanks, Elias," he said. "I can definitely see why we're undefeated in the league if those two are pitching every match."

Elias laughed, nodding. "Yeah, they're beasts on the mound. But don't let them intimidate you too much. They were once exactly where you are, just learning the ropes."

Linus raised an eyebrow. "I find that hard to believe. They pitch like they've been doing it since birth."