Chapter 43: Playoffs (2)

The game began with Lukas stepping up confidently to the mound, his stance calm but focused. Linus watched from his spot, a mix of anticipation and nerves fluttering in his chest as Lukas wound up and delivered the first pitch—a fastball that zipped through the air, crossing right over the heart of the plate. The batter didn't even flinch, keeping his bat steady on his shoulder as the umpire called a sharp "Strike!"

Lukas wasted no time. His second pitch was another fastball, this time brushing the outside corner of the strike zone. Linus noticed the batter stayed still again, clearly more intent on observing than swinging. With two strikes, Lukas seemed to sense the moment to try something different. He threw a curveball that started high but dipped sharply into the zone. The batter froze, unable to react in time, and the umpire called him out on strikes.