The Pitcher, by William Elliot Hazelgrove

Ricky Hernandez has a gift, an arm that can throw a mean fastball, but, so far, there's too much working against him to capitalize on that gift.  He lives in a community where there are very few Hispanics, and he gets teased and marginalized.  His coach would rather play him at catcher, so the coach's son gets to pitch.  And, frankly, in spite of his speed, or maybe because of his speed, he doesn't have very good control.

He does have a few things going for him, though.  Mostly, his mom, who helps out as coach, and pressures the head coach to give him a chance.  And, best of all, the reclusive, grumpy neighbor across the street happens to be a retired major league pitcher.  Slowly but surely, he reluctantly agrees to coach Ricky in preparation for high school tryouts.

Hazelgrove tugs on some heartstrings as he tells the story of a broken down former major leaguer who comes out of his shell a bit, learns to live for others, and regains some of the joy of baseball and life; the story of a little boy with big dreams, who has been let down by his father, his coach, and the world in general; the story of a mom who knows the odds are against her son, but is willing to sacrifice whatever it takes to bring him happiness and success.

Hazelgrove is a talented story teller, who tells this story with heart, realism, and hope.  The Pitcher is an enjoyable tale, well told.

Thanks to the author for the complimentary electronic review copy!