From the Journal of Julien Henri
It was weird tonight. I was so nervous before the game. Even into the middle innings. It was really hard to just be myself on the mound. With the 13 game winning streak none of us want to be the starting pitcher that brings it to an end. I mean, it's going to end some time.
If you look in the newspaper and just read the box score you'd think, 'oh, another Diamond blowout'. But, it wasn't that way at all. Through 5 innings we had a 1-0 lead. I had no idea how many runs I'd have to work with so, for me, I need to pitch shutout baseball. That puts pressure on yourself, at least that's what Johan Guerin told me in the 5th inning.
He noticed me sitting by myself at the end of the dugout while we were batting in the 5th. The guy is such a pro, he knew exactly what to say. Told me to forget about the streak. Focus on each pitch I throw. Make each one purposeful. He said 'if you do that, you got no worries, kid'.
Well, he was right. I cruised through the 5th then our guys posted a 3 spot in the 6th. 4-0 for us. Then a huge 5 run explosion in the 9th and suddenly everyone is loose, all smiles, and the Diamonds are winning another game.
I'm glad Skip let me finish it out. I ended up with 115 pitches. Since I am young they tend to pull me around 110 pitches. I gave up 1 walk and am happy with that. No issue with the 9 K's, either. That was sweet.