Extra

Some games hurt more than others. Anyone who says differently has never played.

I once caught 16 innings in a high-school game. I ended up 2 for 8 with an RBI and we lost 12 to 11. I’ll never forget the bus ride home. I was mad but didn’t scream, sad but didn’t cry and exhausted but didn’t sleep. I couldn’t imagine having the strength to play the next day.

But you don’t have to imagine when the coach yells out the lineup. I batted seventh and started at third base. We won 6 to 2. I don’t remember much else about the game, but I’ll never forget how we felt when it was over.

Every player can find the strength to win. I know the Yankees were dragging yesterday in San Francisco, but they’ll be ready to play today. They have to be.