Chapter Two: What Are Ten Seconds Worth?

In the sixth, the Tides trailed 5–3. Captain Gao Xiao approached Cheng. The thirty-four-year-old catcher wore tape over his injured shoulder. “Their Japanese pitcher and catcher are arguing. Tell me why.” The pitcher complained that the catcher called too many outside pitches. The catcher told him to obey. Cheng translated. Then the future spoke. “The third baseman charges! The Tides bunt into a double play—a terrible decision.” Two runners were on with no outs. The Tides coach had just signaled a sacrifice. The opposing third baseman looked casual, but his weight had shifted forward. “Cancel the bunt,” Cheng said. Gao frowned. “You're telling me?” “He stole the sign. He'll charge.” “How could you know?”