1180 V4 ch28 Wednesday (4)

The draft went on with the first round wrapping up after the 29th pick. When I asked Noah why it stopped at 29 and not 30, he reminded me of the scandal that just rained down on baseball.

"The Astros had to forfeit their first round pick." Noah made a face of disgust. "Bunch of cheaters."

"You gotta keep neutral when it comes to the draft." Kyle reminded him.

"Good thing I have a couple more years to get over it." Noah shrugged. "Then time in the minors. If I do make it to the Astros starting roster, I can handle the boos and chatter." He gave me a sympathetic look. "Better get a thicker skin, Jake."

Kyle laughed. "He would pass out. I'd bet on it."

"Hey! He's getting better." Dave defended me before pulling my head to his chest. "There, there. Come on, Jake, let's practice. Say it with me: sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me."

I froze. "Would they really throw things at me?"