Father's Day weekend was the post season tournament to determine the World series champ between the National and American leagues. There were a total of 20 teams, and our team (the Braves) was a #3 seed. At the post season tournament last season, with the exact same team, we were a #17 seed. Quite a turnaround I'd say.
The boys won their opening game on Tuesday, and followed that up with a win on Thursday night for a birth into the semi finals on Friday night. As it happened, Nana and Pawpaw were scheduled to come into town late Thursday night to celebrate Father's Day Weekend, so needless to say they were thrilled when they learned the boys would be playing Friday night and Aidan would be the starting pitcher.
Aidan pitched the complete game victory (5-4) in a nail biter against the best team in the American league, and the Braves earned the right to compete in the World Series final on Saturday morning. It's really hard to convey the amount stress one can have from a "simple" Little League game. It took a while for all of us to get our blood pressure back in line.
Saturday morning came in a flash, and Aidan was ready. Nana and Pawpaw, and of course Momma and Christopher were there bright and early to cheer the team on. It was another close game, and Aidan was called upon again in the bottom of the last inning to record the final out. He struck out their #4 hitter on three straight pitches for the save. That's right.....The Braves won the world series! How about that.
With the victory in the final game, The Braves earned not one but two trophies on the season, and Aidan got to do it it all in front of his Nana and Pawpaw. Unbelievable!
Aidan had a fantastic season, and led his team in Wins, Saves, Strikeouts, ERA, Homeruns, and Slugging %. If he ever learns proper pitching mechanics he's going to be scary. His hitting is exceptional, and he possesses the swing of a much older and more mature player. Here he is in the Batter's Box in the final game.
You will not find a better stance for an 8 year old anywhere in the country.
Congratulations Aidan on one fantastic season, and thanks for a great Father's Day present.
We both can't wait for the next season to start.
William
