Life. A 6'6" southpaw hurler.

I don't know much. But I figured out over the last few months that I do know one thing. Life's a major league pitcher.

Life has a nasty 12 to 6 curve, a crippling slider, and can even break out a paralyzing knuckler from time to time. His fastball is deceiving, and comes at a steep angle, but it's hittable if he's underestimating the man in the box. Out from the on-deck circle, I'm ready. Finally. Life's imposing to say the least. I'm digging back in, and it's my chance to take the lead in what's been a see-saw battle for years. I'm standing in the box, knees knocking, hoping and praying for a fastball right in my wheelhouse. Out of nowhere, I have a moment of calm, and somehow I know that a two-seam heater is exactly what's coming. I can feel it. First time I've felt anything like it in forever. It's like I'm in his head. I have the upper hand. I'm adjusting my stance, my grip, taking slow, steady breaths, just waiting...

TO BE CONTINUED...

Josh Hamilton > Roy Hobbs

They call him "The Dream" - well he lived up to that moniker last night. The single most incredible performance I've ever seen in baseball. I've been a fan of the game for 25 years, and I can't remember seeing anything like it. In case you missed it, the All Star Home Run Derby was last night. Josh Hamilton hit last in the first round, needing 7 home runs to make it through to the second round. In an incredible display of talent, strength and gumption, Josh hit 28 home runs in the first round, the most ever in one round of the derby. He put his stamp on the post-steroids era of baseball.
Josh being from Raleigh is just icing on the cake. The buzz around town about him so far this season is amazing. He is in the conversation for MVP, the triple crown, and is currently leading the majors in RBI with 95. So instead of talking about the coming college football season, or the latest NASCAR results, people out on the town are actually talking baseball. Baseball! Girls even! He's had a lasting impact in just one half-season, and it's a tribute to him.
His story continues to get better every day. And I can't wait to see what happens next. Congratulations, Josh, you just might have a movie made of your life, and Roy Hobbs won't be able to hold a candle to you.