Just like that, the season was over.
On this day we were not better team, at least in terms of score. After the game, there were fist bumps and high fives, handshakes and hugs, tears and goodbyes. As the fields emptied out, some parents lingered, holding on to the moment. Ryan ended the game with a strikeout and for awhile was inconsolable.
After the requiem for the season was over, the mood started to shift. All of sudden, little boys picked up bats and balls; knocking balls back and forth to each other. Why? Because baseball is fun and no loss would stop these boys from playing the game they love. For me, the epilogue to the Orioles season was watching Ryan toss a ball in the air and try to hit it to the wall. Not to drive in a run, not because the crowd was watching; just because he’s a kid.
Thank you Orioles families. It was a privilege to be a part of this team.
