The Comeback Begins

The Titans had clawed back a run, but they still trailed 4-2 heading into the sixth inning. The energy in the stadium had shifted. The Raptors, once cocky and dominant, weren't looking as relaxed anymore.

Logan stood at second base, ready for the next play. He had just scored a crucial run, but there was no time to celebrate. The Raptors were still in control.

Coach Talbot clapped his hands from the dugout. "Stay locked in, boys! We're not done yet!"

Across the diamond, Brandon Wolfe adjusted his cap at shortstop, glancing over at Logan. "Not bad, rookie," he called out. "But let's see if you can handle the pressure now."

Logan didn't answer. He just dug his cleats into the dirt and focused.

Top of the Sixth: A Defensive Test

The Raptors came out aggressive, trying to steal the momentum back. Their leadoff hitter ripped a sharp grounder toward shortstop. Jimmy fielded it cleanly and fired to first—one out.

The next batter laid down a perfect bunt. Logan sprinted in, barehanded the ball, and threw on the run—safe by half a step. The Raptors had speed, and they knew it.

The runner on first took a big lead.

Coach Talbot signaled to the pitcher: Watch the runner.

Logan shifted slightly toward second, knowing a steal attempt was coming.

The pitcher delivered. The runner took off.

The catcher popped up and fired a bullet to second. Logan darted toward the bag, his glove outstretched—

Thump!

The ball smacked into his mitt just as the runner slid in.

"Out!" the umpire bellowed.

Logan pumped his fist, adrenaline surging. That was the first time he had successfully applied a tag in a real-game steal attempt.

The dugout erupted.

Big Mac yelled from first base, "Carter's got that dog in him!"

Logan just smiled.

The next batter grounded out to end the inning. The Titans were still in it.

Bottom of the Sixth: A Golden Opportunity

Drew led off and worked a tough walk after fouling off several pitches. Big Mac stepped in next, sending a single into right field.

The Titans had runners on first and second. No outs.

The Raptors' coach walked out to the mound, signaling for a new pitcher. A right-hander with a nasty slider took over.

Coach Talbot called timeout and waved Logan over. "Alright, Carter. You're up. Stay patient at the plate. We need a good at-bat here."

Logan nodded, gripping his bat tight.

As he walked to the plate, he heard Wolfe call from shortstop, "Don't choke, Clutch."

Logan ignored him.

The first pitch—a slider outside.

Ball one.

The second pitch—a fastball at the knees.

Strike one.

Logan exhaled. Stay calm. See the ball, hit the ball.

The pitcher came set.

He threw a fastball up in the zone—and Logan reacted.

Crack!

The ball shot past the diving third baseman and into left field. Drew took off from second, rounding third. The third base coach waved him home.

The throw came in—Drew slid headfirst into the plate.

Safe!

The Titans dugout exploded.

Big Mac advanced