Talked to the boy this evening. He got to pitch 4 innings outside today. I think he's glad to be doing something besides running and swimming. They're going to be playing intrasquad till the opener 2/11. I'd say they'll be ready to play someone else.

After years of sneaking over to practice and games, this is a tough adjustment to not see what's going on.

Bizazz, I love reading the posts of you college freshmen parents. I'm excited for my son's senior year in highschool, but when I read the posts of the freshmen parents, I can feel the excitement and joy you're expressing. I hope he has a fantastic start to his year and you're able to see as much of it as possible. Best of luck and enjoy what I'm sure is a very special time!!!!

I second lafmom and I am chomping at the bit as well! It is especially exciting to hear any news regarding the actual playing of baseball. This brutal winter is taking its toll on most of us.

I am curious, Bizazz are you going to be able to see or travel to most of his games or are you going to have to pick and choose your spots?

Bizazz - I remember when Dustin was a Freshman and I was on pins and needles waiting for his first college season to start, there's nothing like it in the world. I have that same feeling this year but there is also the feeling I have that this may be his last season of baseball ever. Fifteen years of baseball memories flash before my eyes every time I think about it. It's been a wonderful ride and whatever happens he's ready to move forward, I just don't know what I'm going to do with my time if this is really the end. I guess the first thing will be the "honey do" list that seems to get longer each year. Then maybe I can talk Dustin into some slow pitch softball with the old man. Look forward to seeing you at the first game.

Cleveland, my chosen profession (CPA) makes it impossible for me to drop everything and attend every game. I was able to work around the high school schedule because most of the games were in town (obviously didn't make the spring trip to Florida). However, if things hold steady my son will be a starting pitcher. I'm hoping that I'll have a general idea when he's pitching and can plan accordingly. All the better if it's weekend duty.

I won't be able to attend many mid-week games until after 4/15, unless they are playing close to Knoxville. Campus is about 1:45 from home. Playing double-headers on Saturdays will help.

DP Dad, you're going through what we'll all face someday - the day they hang it up. I hope Dustin is able to do that on his own terms.

Bizazz,

Good luck to your son! - and please post in as much detail and as often as you like on his progress for all of us that enjoy reading about these players.