The Marlins’ season came to a close tonight against a very strong Orioles team, who won 24-5. Alan was 0-for-2 but enjoyed putting on the Marlins’ uniform one last time. Grandma Debbie and Papa were there to watch the game and see the presentation of trophies after the game.

Above all else, Alan was happy to close out the season at Sunday Memories with a vanilla ice cream cone. After the ice cream break, he returned to the field, where he played a pickup game late into the night with some other players, including Jackson from the Orioles. Alan was the last to leave the field!

The Marlins notched playoff victory #1 tonight with a hard fought 12-11 win over the Mariners that keeps their season alive.

The Mariners struck first for 4 runs in the top of the 1st, but the Marlins took the lead in the bottom of the 1st and never looked back.  The Marlins’ first 7 batters all reached base and came around to score — including Alan, who hit his first career triple!

Near 90 degree temperatures wore down the Marlins as the game went on, but they were able to maintain the lead throughout.  The Mariners did get the tying run to 3rd base in the top of the 5th, but the Marlins hung on without needing their last at bat.

On the day, Alan went 1-for-2 with a run scored.  He also played left field and had a few balls hit in his direction.

After the game, Alan and De’Onta stayed to watch Xavier’s Brewers and Noah’s Cardinals play in the two late games.  They had their postgame snacks in their usual playground spot.  Alan loves playing the early games so he can socialize at the park all night (or at least until sundown – the unofficial time for ice cream at McDonald’s).

The win keeps the season alive.  Next up will be the Orioles on Wednesday.

Other notes:

-Grandma Debbie and Papa came to see the game.  Alan was glad to see them, as always.

-Alan’s triple came in his first AB with his new bat.  Alan had used the new bat in practice earlier this season, but this was the first time he’d used it in a game.