Sitting in the Bullpen

I am extremely happy to announce that Safe at Home:  A Season in the Valley will be released this Saturday, January 16th at 2:00 p.m. at the New Market Community Library.  Mail orders will be taken after the 16th.  Simply contact me to place your order!  As a preview for readers of this blog, I am publishing excerpts this week.  Today's is taken from Chapter 15, "Fourth of July."

Kivett is the first batter in the bottom of the 6th.  During batting practice, he has hit practically every ball to right field, and he lifts a long fly ball in that direction.  As Fauquier's right fielder drifts back to the warning track, we rise as one in the bullpen.  The right fielder can finally drift no further, as he is against the wall, and the ball sails out of Rebel Park.  Stauffer has called the homer, and Jay and I congratulate him.  The Wave rolls back and forth across the bullpen as Kivett circles the bases.  There is a real sense now that we are not only back in the game, but that we will somehow find a way to win it.  We.  In the stands or in the press box, I work hard at being an observer of batting stances and body language and the mood of the crowd.  Not this night; this night I have been invited to the bullpen for the experience of sitting out there and the experience is definitely we.

Comments

[John Combs]

Can't wait to get my copy Austin! And all the copies for my friends and family!

[Jennifer]

Good morning and congrats! Just saw a blurb about the book on Shenandoah County Library's website, so I came to check out your blog. I'm very excited to read the book - wish I had seen the blurb earlier, so I could have made plans to drive down to the book signing. I'll definitely be contacting you in a few weeks about getting a copy b/c my dad's birthday is coming up soon and I know he'll love it - he's a big fan/supporter of the Valley League.

[Austin]

Thanks for checking out the blog, Jennifer and for your interest in the book!