Outfielder Tommy Knox is said to "own" pitcher Wayne Kerley because he always hits well when Wayne is on the mound. What the public doesn't know is that the two men have long been involved in a committed, loving relationship. They met and fell in love while playing in the minor leagues, but were called up to the majors and now play for opposing teams.<br><br>Tommy and Wayne have managed to stay together through twelve closeted years. Being on different teams means they have to spend most of the baseball season apart.<br><br>In the final year of his contract, Wayne considers retirement as his career begins to wind down. The thought of life without baseball seems nearly impossible, but he keeps his fears and dread to himself. Tommy still has two years left of his contract, and all the successes, defeats, and injuries that entails. Can the two reconcile their love of each other and the game?

Ownage

Instead of texting, Tommy calls that night.


“I’m tired, Tommy, tired of the whole damned thing,” I whine.


“Of course you are. You had a shitty day.”


“One lousy game. You’re allowed,” he assures me.


“And you’re being kind, honey. I do appreciate it.”


“Yeah. I allowed myself a bourbon.”


The laugh feels good and I tell him so. “Only you get it,” I add.


“That’s sweet, but I’m sure others understand what a rough game does.”


“That I do,” he says, “all I’m allowed. You know I’m with you every second.”


“I know. Wish you were here right now, in person.”


We talk until his phone battery dies and I sleep well. My next game I strike out eight and Tommy calls, cheering.


“Wish you were here to celebrate,” I tell him. “You know you’d get drilled.”


“So let’s do otherwise.” This is our phrase for phone sex.


Chapter 7