Off Topic
A Different Discussion with the Manager
July 14, 2055
“I suppose you know why we’re here, right?” Pacheco begins, essentially confirming his fears.
“You’re going to tell me Rich has been dealt, too?” There’s too much hope on his voice. Or is it desperation. Rich Dares is the other guy who plays third and hits lefties.
Pacheco’s quirky grin is all Vera neds to know that Rich Dares will still be donning a Mad Popes uniform this evening.
“We’re going to option you Black Hills. But you know the drill. Keep your nose to the grindwheel and focus on getting better. You’ll be back.”
Vera draws a deep breath. He’s not sure if this is the right place to ask, but he’s a blue-collar guy and it’s a white collar world. He’s worked hard to get here. He wants to know the truth. “Can I ask you a straight question?”
“Can’t hurt.”
“Are they trying to fiddle with my service time? You know?”
Pacheco sits back. “Well. I can’t tell you that’s not going through their mind. But here’s the thing. You’re twenty years old, and they brought you up. If you were hitting .315 I’d say you’ve got a valid worry. But, Jaun, you’re hitting .215, and to be honest sometimes you’re looking over-matched. So I say don’t sweat it. The fact is we’ve got a couple guys ahead of you right now. But you’re the future. Keep your chin up.”
Vera nods.
He doesn’t like the answer, but he likes it at that same time.
“All right, Skip,” he says, standing to go pack. “Keep my seat warm.”
Pacheco stands and pats Vera on the back as he leaves. The look on the manger’s eyes says he knows the wisdom he just imparted is right.
Juan Vera will be back, and next time he hoped it would be for good.
| POS | Player Name | Age | B | T | OVR | POT | Con | Con P | Gap | Gap P | Pow | Pow P | Eye | Eye P | AvK | AvK P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3B | Juan Vera | 20 | R | R | 50 | 50 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 8 |
| Source | Ht | Wt | SPEED | STEAL | RUN | CAB | CAR | IFR | IFE | IFA | TDP | OFR | OFE | OFA | ||
| DR51.1 | 6'2" | 180 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 4 | 9 |
