This series follows a group of young baseball players as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of the sport they love. Each installment presents new hurdles on and off the field, from intense games to personal growth. Readers will be drawn into their journey of teamwork, friendship, and the pursuit of athletic excellence. It's a story about passion for the game and the true meaning of being a player.
Corey Maduro and his team, the Orioles, are going to the Grand Slam Tournament, but Corey's in a hitting slump, is being hassled by Katelyn Morris, and is embarrassed by his dad's temper at his games.
Connor Sullivan is too humble to admit it, but he's the Orioles' best player. Lately, though, Connor hasn't been so good-natured. Even his best friend, Jordy, starts to avoid him. Coach Hammond is ready to bench him indefinitely. Will Connor be able to get his act together in time to help the team win championship?
Robbie Hammond is the hardest throwing pitcher in the Babe Ruth League. But what good is all that heat when he can't seem to find the plate? With Robbie struggling, the Orioles are suffering through a nightmare season, still looking for their first win. Robbie's teammates are whispering that the only reason he's even pitching is because he's the coach's kid. They've even given him a new nickname: Ball Four. What the other Orioles don't know is that Robbie is still haunted by a fastball that got away from him and injured a batter in last year's All-Star Game. Now, with the pressure mounting, he's willing to try anything to get his control back, including listening to a mysterious boy who just might hold the key to helping Robbie'and the Orioles'save their season. This third action-packed book in Cal Ripken Jr.'s All-Star series will have readers on the edge of their seats as they root for Robbie's comeback.