In memory of Roy Halladay (1977-2017), Philadelphia Phillies pitcher from 2010-2013.
Atop the 11-inch raised mound,
the 6-foot-6, 225 pound
beast digs in. Metal cleats
rip through the fine dirt
like children opening
presents on Christmas Day.
Righty-righty matchup.
The crowd relentlessly cheers
for their stud.
The 93-mph pitch hurled
at Ruiz who awaits the sting in his mighty leather,
but never caught the ball.
Bat on ball.
Dead silence.
Quiet enough to hear
the deep breath of hustle.
108 stitches fly toward first base,
just in time.
The umpire signals:
out!
No-hitter.
Philadelphia explodes into
a sea of red and white pinstripes.
A rare occurrence—
Roy smiles.
Grade: 12
Arlington, VA
Newport, RI
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
To be happy
My father