I'm having a hard time concentrating. The game is on my mind. I can't escape it.
Remember that dear Yankee fan who took the time to call me after opening day to check up on the baseball happenings? Well, she resurfaced again today.
It appears that her friend has invited her to attend tonight's game. She was calling for some advise as to how to get out of work.
"Simple, try the truth."
"That's what my mom said."
"Well..."
"That never works," was her reply.

As the conversation continues I can't help but feel a tinge of jeolousy. Or some other emotion I'm not familiar with.

Here is a die-hard Yankee fan who may attend the most anticipated games in baseball history.

That's not all. Her friend must have some killer connections. There's a 90% chance that she will not only meet Daisuke, but will have her photo taken with him before the game.

Can you believe it?

I sat waiting for the punchline, certainly this was some sort of cruel joke.

Yankee fan: "Can you believe it. I have the chance to see history. Dice-K pitching the home opener."
I correct her. "Well, yesterday was actually the home opener."
"You know what I mean."
Yes all too well. I add, "Not too mention Ichiro."
"What? Ichiro's going to be there?" She placed her hands over her mouth in excitement and awe, gasping for breath.
"Yes."
"I can't believe it. I didn't know that was the matchup. Ichiro's pitching vs. Dice-K."
"Ah, no. Ichiro is a hitter and will be the first batter Daisuke will face."
"You know what I mean," she continued.
Yes, all too well.
Then she continued, informing me that she will be donning her Yankees' garb.
"You can't do that," I insist.
"I have to represent. Anyone who knows me, knows that I'm not going to lie."
"But you don't need to advertise. You're going to go to Fenway to perhaps the biggest game in recent history and meet Daisuke Matsuzaka wearing Yankee gear?"
"Yes. And when I shake his hand, I'm going to pull one of his fingers." She says with a light-hearted laugh.
"On second thought, perhaps you shouldn't go. But, if your friend is looking for someone to take that ticket..."
"I've got to go talk to my boss."
"At least get me an autograph."
"Yeah, right."

I hang up the phone, disgusted.
Meanwhile, I hold tickets to Thursday's sure to be rained-out Wakefield "opener."
Can you believe the luck?

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