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Eli is nine years old, and today is his first day learning to play baseball. He’s nervous, clutching his new glove like it’s a lifeline, and staring at the vast green field that seems much bigger than him. Every kid around him seems confident, tossing balls effortlessly and laughing with teammates as if they’ve been playing forever.

Eli takes a deep breath. He knows he wants to be part of the game, to feel the thrill of hitting a ball and running bases like the heroes he’s always admired. But for now, all he can do is listen, watch, and hope he doesn’t embarrass himself. Little does he know, this first day will be full of surprises—and lessons about courage, friendship, and the joy of unexpected triumphs.

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