06/28/2008 It's the final day of the 2008 season here at Union City's Graham Park.  Skies are overcast with a soft sprinkle of rain.  The league's official photographer (Mrs. Gina) is taking snapshots of the players as they prepare for the game.  This will be the final meeting between the Cubs and Cardinals.  The players are discussing the upcoming game and coaches are making final preparations.  Only lightning or a torrential downpour will prevent this contest from being played.  The stands are full and full of excitement.   For most of the players , this year is their first appearance on the diamond.  For some it may be their last if it has been a bad experience.  Hopefully all will progress through the minor league system. The Cardinals take the field and the visiting Cubs prepare to bat.  In the top of the 1st: #5 Sully is the leadoff man and he drives the ball down the first base line. #1 Dallas drives the ball hard past the 2nd baseman.  #11 Tyler hits a hard grounder to the 1st baseman. #7 Devin grounds the ball to the Cardinal pitcher Jaxon and he overthrows 1st. #6 Brian hits a soft liner between 2nd and 1st for a single. #8 Braden smashes the ball hard to the Cardinal pitcher and reaches 1st. In the bottom of the 1st, as the Cardinals come to bat the sun starts bleeding through the clouds: #5 Chase hits a line drive to right center. #6 Jaxon hits a long fly ball to right center and he then gets in a run down between 2nd and 3rd and is safe at second. #4 Ashton smashes the ball to 2nd for an infield hit. #63 Ethan hits a hard drive passed 2nd. #9 Trey batting left-handed gets a base hit down the 1st base line. #7 Trey batting cleanup as his granndaddy said, smacks the ball past 1st base for a hit.   No score was kept, But really who cares, Fun was had by all the players. This is a time for all to remember, Learning to play America's game, And years to come they will improve, Because they learned to play as a team. Mudville is now quite, As it should be, For these gentlemen, Have now made Cal Ripken history. Thanks to the Cubs and Cardinals today, For helping us enjoy each play, Rooting for each, To be the best they could be.