章 505: CIF Finals: West Valley Prep (9)

"Jake, wait a minute." Coach told me, halting me from going to the on deck circle. 

We were about to start the top of the eighth inning and Zeke was already out there taking practice swings. I had rushed to grab my helmet and bat as well, feeling the need to get some practice swings too. 

"Yes, Coach?" I felt nervous looking up at him, scared that he might bench me or something. 

"This is going to sound a little too demanding, but hear me out. We need a homerun." Coach stated. 

"I've never hit one before..." I was confused as to what he was trying to say. "Are you putting in a pinch hitter for me?"

"No!" His shout got the attention of some of my teammates so he lowered his voice and then lowered himself so we were eye level. "No way. I want you to do it. You're the best batter on this team. I know you think you don't have a lot of power, but you've been training all season. Have you ever really tried for a homerun?"