Two outs, bottom of the ninth.
You're outta here!!!
And the Rats lose again!
Boos!
0-13 for the season, this team has nowhere to go but up.
Next time PeeWee.
Next time.
And the River Rats lose again...
I just want to listen to a little smooth jazz.
Calms me down.
Is that too much to ask Murph?
I'm afraid I can't help you there Warren.
Then how can you help me?
Because something isn't working out there.
There's only so much I can do from the dugout.
I can't play the game for 'em.
We're off to our worst start in 15 years.
We're only three weeks into the season.
The guys are still figuring things out.
Figuring it out?
We're not building a rocket, this is baseball!!
What's to figure?
You throw, you catch, you hit, you run.
Sometimes you have all the players do it
in the same game.
I got a tip on a hot pitching prospect
that I want you to check out on the off day.
C'mon Warren.
Outside of Auburn.
Indiana?
That's 200 miles!
Gas money.
Each way!
And here's the address.
We could use another arm in the rotation.
And one that won't break the bank.
If this guy works out, it might help your chances.
My chances?
Just business.
Nothing personal.
Personal?
That just wouldn't be like you, Warren, now would it?
I'll pretend I didn't hear that.
I hope you find what you're looking for.
Jazz Warren.
Where am I?
Ohhhh!!!!!!!!
Here we go!!!
Ohh!
Perfect.
Hey little fella.
Oscar!!
Come back Oscar!
Oscar, don't run away like that.
Hey, I could use a little help here.
Oscar, don't run away like that again.
You're Mama is going to be upset,
you're Papa's gonna be upset.
My Papa is going to be upset...
Excuse me?
I ran my car into the ditch
and I got no cell phone service and...
I just need to use a phone...
Papa told me never to talk to strangers.
Normally that's great advice
but I'm just a friend in need who needs a phone.
If you're a friend then you can use our phone.
I'm absolutely a friend.
Arthur Murphy, my friends just call me Murph.
What's your name, friend?
Michael James Tussler sir.
Folks call me Mickey.
Nice to meet you Mickey.
That's your pet?
Yes.
His name is Oscar.
He likes apples.
And his Mama likes apples, and his Papa likes apples...
I think pretty much everybody likes apples.
I like to smash them though.
That phone,
could you show me where I could make that phone call?
Yeah.
Thank you.
So what kind of farm is this?
We used to have cows, we used to grow corn,
but now it's just home.
What's going on?
It's okay sir.
My car ran into a ditch
and Mickey said I might be able to use your phone.
What'd I tell you about talking to strangers?
I'm Arthur Murphy from Ohio.
Gotta teach 'em to follow the rules.
That one's a tough learner though.
Son, you got pigs to feed.
Seems like a good kid.
Assuming your phone call is long distance.
I'll call collect.
Of course.
Molly!
We got company.
Hello.
This is Arthur Murphy.
Had a bit of car trouble.
Show him where the phone is.
Of course.
Right this way.
Thank you.
Right through here.
I apologize for the state of things.
We weren't expecting visitors.
I'm just grateful for the favor, thank you.
Phone is on the wall.
I'll leave you to your business.
Thanks.
Hello Triple A?
I managed to drive my car into a ditch.
Rural Route 310.
Just outside of...
What's the name of this town?
Bargersville.
Bargersville Indiana.
Three and a quarter miles south of 44.
Tussler Farm.
Tell him not to bother coming up the driveway.
You'll be waiting by your car.
Did you get that?
Okay great.
Amazing.
I'm sorry.
See you within the hour.
Yes, thank you very much.
Lemonade Mr. Murphy?
Thank you.
Please call me Murph.
Would you like some ice, Mr Murphy?
No, no, thank you.
This is great.
Your son, Mickey, he's a very special boy.
Mickey has Asperger's Syndrome.
A form of autism.
I'm sorry...
I didn't mean any...
He's really remarkable.
Do you mind if I speak to him for a minute?
Are you a doctor?
No, I'm a baseball coach.
You've got quite an arm Mickey.
Ever play baseball?
You know, baseball.
Three strikes.
Home run.
All that good stuff.
No.
Papa doesn't let me leave the farm much.
Don't think I'd be very good at baseball anyway.
Are you kidding?
You got some heat!
What?
Talent.
You have a lot of talent, kid.
Talent.
Mickey, would you do me a favor?
Depends what it is.
Because I won't chop wood.
Papa won't let me use the ax.
Says I could hurt myself.
I won't have you chop wood, promise you.
This here is a real live baseball.
May I take a look at that apple please.
They're almost the same size.
Only you can't eat this one.
Would you mind taking this baseball
and throwing it into that tub
just like you did with that apple.
Oh wow!!!!
That is amazing!!!
That is really something!!!!
Whatever is going on here has ended.
Mr. Murphy, you've made your phone call...
now I think it's best if you go out to the road
and wait by your car.
Can I talk to you about something, Mr. Tussler?
Did I tell you what I do for a living?
You mentioned you were a baseball coach,
is that a living?
What I meant, I'm the manger of the Clayton River Rats,
we're a semi-pro baseball team from Clayton, Ohio.
Right near Toledo.
Have you heard of us?
Afraid not.
Not much use for games here on the farm.
Then I'll get right to the point.
That son of yours is a very gifted boy.
That's what all the doctors and social workers tell us.
Always wanting to cure him.
Snake oil as far as I'm concerned.
They don't know who Mickey is at all.
I'm not talking about Mickey's condition.
I'm talking about his arm.
The boy's got a golden arm.
A what?
I've been around a lot of pitchers in my day,
but nobody throws the ball
as hard as Mickey just did right now.
If it's because of these apples, I'm going to have an entire
truckload shipped to our next practice.
Mechanics could use some work but it's remarkable really.
What do Mechanics have to with Mickey throwing apples?
Mechanics...
form..
The techniques of pitching a baseball.
You're not standin' by your car when "B" Bob Towing comes by,
they'll tow it away and leave you behind?
I know them when I see them.
I'll pay you $200
if you let Mickey come and tryout with my baseball team.
We'll take great care of him, anything he needs.
That's crazy.
What's the rope?
Molly!
Come on over here.
Mr. Murphy wants Mickey to try out
for a baseball team in Ohio.
Can you believe that?
That sounds nice..
What does that mean?
Mickey would be pitching
for a professional baseball team, ma'am.
Mickey hasn't been away from home much, Mr. Murphy.
All I'm asking is you let him tryout.
Well, I don't see any harm...
We need the boy around here.
To work on the farm, this is what he knows.
This is his world.
Mickey could be very successful pitcher.
Make some money, some very good money.
That certainly would be helping out around the farm,
so to speak.
Maybe we can talk it over and get back to you.
Thank you for your hospitality.
Here's my card.
I'll just say good-bye to Mickey and be on my way.
I'll say good-bye to Mickey from right here.
Mickey, very nice to meet you son, enjoy that baseball.
I hope to see you soon.
Thank you very much.
Goodbye Mr. Murphy,
Bye, bye.
[cell phone ringing÷}
Hello?
Hello.
Murph, glad I caught you.
You in Indiana yet?
'Cause we lost that prospect.
He got snatched up.
I told you he was good.
Well, like they say,
when one door closes, God opens another.
And I may have found that door, Warren.
Those guys don't grow on trees.
Yeah, but apples do.
Apples?
What kind of gibberish are you talking about?
I'm losing you Warren.
Bad cell phones out here.
Okay guys listen up.
I want you all to meet Mickey.
Mickey Tussler.
He's a pitcher and a good one and he's here for a tryout.
There goes your job, Lefty.
Say hello to the guys, Mickey.
Go ahead, it's just the guys.
Just say hi.
We passed under 36 bridges.
Mickey's what you'd call autistic.
A condition called Asperger's Syndrome.
He's using big words again.
Some of you college guys may have even heard of it.
What it means is he's a little sensitive
and doesn't like surprises.
So be nice to him
and if he needs a hand help him out.
This is going to be your locker, your gear,
everything you're going to need, right next to Pee Wee's.
What up Mick?
Welcome aboard.
Just leave it here.
He's a little bit shy at first
but once you get to know him he's downright friendly
And PeeWee I'm counting on you to make him feel welcome.
Before you know it me and Mickey'll be best friends.
Good thing.
Because he's going to be staying with you.
What?
What about your place, you got a...
spare bedroom...
He's going to stay with you, PeeWee.
108 stitches on a baseball.
108 stitches.
Good to know.
So what do you think?
Could you stay with my good friend, Pee Wee here?
Okay.
We can be friends.
I'll leave you guys to it.
PeeWee if you plan on eating this apple,
I'd put it somewhere else 'cause my man Mick here
he has a thing for apples.
Oscar is the one who eats them, I just smash them.
Okay, I'm going to take that as a good thing.
For now, let's just get out there
and show them how it's done.
Have a good time, let's have fun okay?
Let's have a catch?
Alright Mick, let's see what you got buddy.
Whoa!
A little help.
It's okay, Mick, it's okay.
Look, buddy, you gotta learn to walk before you can run.
I know how to walk.
And run.
I know Mick.
Just an expression.
Try it again.
Throw a strike!
Whew!!
That's it, Mick.
Clearly, you got the power,
no question about it.
We will work on your mechanics so you can really harness it.
Okay, Mr. Murphy.
I'd like you to watch the next few games
from the dugout with me.
I'll teach you how to score
and pretty much what everybody on the field is doing.
Would you like that?
Yes sir.
I'm going to show you how to throw a fastball, the curve.
Now the next pitch I want to show you is the knuckle ball
'cause you have so much power that
every now and again you have to take a little something off
and really fool the batter.
Take something off?
Take something off.
Not exactly...
but I liked it.
The knuckleball, it's kind of a misnomer
because you're not really using your knuckles
you're using your fingertips
to dig into the laces right like this.
And unlike a fastball, or a curve
you're not going to break your wrist.
I want you to keep your wrist straight.
When you throw it keep your wrist straight like that
If you do it right, it'll float, float, float
and then at the last second, then drop off the table.
Okay?
Okay.
Give it a shot.
Here we go, Mick, let's go buddy!
Let's go Mick!
Okay, okay.
The knuckleball is the hardest pitch to hit
because even the pitcher doesn't know where it's going.
I don't like surprises.
You can use surprise to your advantage.
Trust your ability and let the ball do the rest.
Alright Mick, look at me.
Got it?
Try it again.
Let's go now Mick, trust it, trust it.
Okay, hey, hey!
Mick, you okay?
Stupid knuckleball.
Don't even know where it's going.
That's the point of it.
Who cares.
I got it Murph.
What'd I say?
Murph really believes in you.
Don't see him taking chances on someone
who don't got it.
Mr. Murphy said I got it.
Then you got it!
That's an old one.
Used it as a recruitment pamphlet last year.
The real rat pack.
Everybody is in it.
Everybody?
Then who took the picture?
You know who that is?
That's Murph, played left field.
If he only had a few more years.
I don't understand?
An accident.
Chip McNally.
This guy, next to Murph, he's the manager for the Bullets.
They collided hard in the outfield.
Pretty much ended both their playing careers.
So, what do broken players do?
Nine times out of ten...
they turn to coaching.
Mickey, Mickey,
I have something here for you.
My old hat.
When I played for the River Rats.
What is this?
Like 100 years old.
It's not quite that old.
Just don't throw it away.
Knuckle ball.
Don't throw it away.
I got it.
Go run with your team!
Let's go! Let's go!!
Look alive today, boys, look alive!!!
Off to a slow start this year Murph?
Just fine, McNally, just fine!
Fine like when I called you off that flyball, fine!
Are you still on that seriously?!
Seriously I am!
I'm still waiting for an apology.
You can wait for a long time, 'cause it ain't coming, Chip!
Alright, alright, let's go!
We've got a game to play.
This ain't over, Murph!!
Let's get this game started!
Let's go now!
C'mon, bring the heat Lefty!
C'mon, you guys, that's my boyfriend!!!!
Let's go Lefty throw some strikes!
Ball 4, player takes a base.
Here we go again.
What's going on?
Just Lefty being Lefty.
Why's he called Lefty if he throws with his right hand.
It's complicated Mick.
Let's just say never play with firecrackers.
Good job, good job!
How'd you like to pitch?
In the game.
But the scorecard.
I'll take care of it.
The Rats are in red, the Bullets are blue.
They gotta stay separate.
No problem at all, Mick.
I'm going to go grab George and signal you.
When I signal you, grab your glove.
Come on out!
Okay.
Time!
Time out has been called on the field.
Throw the ball.
How do you feel?
Good.
I'm going to go to the bullpen.
You kidding me, man?
C'mon, these guys couldn't make a play to save their lives.
Besides, I've got a shutout going here.
And you've got 105 pitches.
They're tracking you.
I'm gonna go with the kid.
Mickey?
That's right.
You kidding me, man?
No.
Alright, go with Mickey.
Let's go Mick!
Booing!
Bring Lefty back!
Hustle up, Mick, let's go bud!
And it looks like coach Murphy has gone to the bullpen.
Here we go Mickey, just like we practiced.
Just throw strikes, it's going to be a piece of cake!
Okay.
We have to switch hats.
I'll keep it warm for you.
You'll do great.
Nothing to it, just aim for the target and you'll be okay.
Aim for the target!
Now pitching for the River Rats
in his first minor league appearance
please welcome Mickey Tussler.
Mickey, into the glove, okay?
Just throw the ball!
Strike!
Mick, you got them.
Strike!
Let's go!
Go Mickey Tussler!!!!!
Mickey, Mickey, where are you?!
C'mon son, you worked hard.
Now let's go show that pig!
Awwww!
Homer for Rocco Hightower.
And this season is just getting started.
C'mon Rats, you'll get it back!
Top of the ninth,
it looks like we got ourselves a ballgame.
You think you can finish this game?
The team needs you.
Yes, Mr. Murphy.
Block out all the noise.
Just think of being back on the farm with Oscar.
Give me your glove.
I've got something to help you out.
And this game is finally back under way.
Mickey, just throw it into the glove!!
Strike 3!
And the Rats take on their first victory of the season
Looks like the Rats have a new shining star!
Let's hear it for Mickey Tussler!!
Mick, great job!
Okay.
Whatever you did out there Skip,
that was good managing.
I've still got a few tricks up my sleeve.
Mick, we got a couple of days off this week.
I was thinking that maybe you' want to go home
see your mom, dad, and Oscar.
Does that sound good?
Yes, sir.
Okay, I'll make the call.
Your mom is going to be happy to see you.
Murph, you coming by?
We're grilling up some steaks tonight
In honor of Mick's first victory.
You guys celebrate without me.
Steaks are good.
Woah, woah, woah!!!!
We need to update your style, man.
You have no chance with the ladies dressed like that.
Stick with me and I'll teach you how dress like a pla-yah.
You'll thank me later.
I'm already a player.
Just cause you play ball don't make you a pla-yah.
Pla-yah.
Pla-yah??
Pla-yah.
You'll get it.
First thing's first though, you gotta get rid of that shirt.
Mickey, would you like to say grace?
Yeah.
Bless us Oh Lord and these thy gifts...
Speak up boy.
Which we are about to receive
through thy bounty through Christ Our Lord.
Amen.
Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Tussler, this smells fantastic!
Thank you Mr. Murphy.
We grow the potatoes and the corn right here on the farm..
Mickey, remember your manners.
Sit up straight.
Mickey is doing a great job with the team.
He won his first game the other day.
We'd like to offer Mickey a contract
for the rest of the season.
Still got a lot of work to do but we think he could be
a great pitcher.
No.
It's a very fair contract, generous even.
If I am not mistaken, Mickey's 18 years old,
isn't that decision his?
Are you telling me how to raise my son?
Of course not.
What he needs is stability and routine.
I don't see how any good can come from Mickey
being around a bunch of guys who play games and call it work.
Now Clarence.
It might be good for Mickey.
A new experience.
A new experience?
Like sending him to public school?
Or that camp for "special" kids?
Those didn't work out so well, Molly.
Maybe he has a chance for a life beyond the farm.
Yes.
What's that boy?
I'll play for the River Rats.
Strike 'em out.
Right Mr. Murphy?
That's right, Mick.
And how do you plan on taking care of yourself
away from home?
Away from your mama's shoulder to cry on.
I'm part of the team.
We take care of each other.
Everything will be different, Mickey
I know dad.
Alright.
If Mickey wants to play ball, let him play.
Thank you Mr. Tussler.
Don't make me regret my decision.
Five-eighths.
One larger than three-eighths, one smaller than seven-eighths.
Sorry about my husband.
He gets a little over-protective of Mickey.
I should be the one who should apologize.
I crossed the line.
So how is Mickey around all those baseball players?
He is doing really well.
He even has a nickname.
Sauce.
Sauce?
When he first got there, they started calling him Big Mick,
which became Big Mac.
Naturally.
Okay?
You know.
Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce and cheese...
It would sound silly to call him sesame seed bun.
So they called him Special Sauce
which got shortened to sauce, so now he's sauce.
Makes perfect sense really.
So he's having fun.
He's doing really well and they really accepted him on the team.
He hasn't had any of his episodes?
When things get a little too much for him to handle?
There's been a couple of moments,
but for the most part he's been great.
On the mound the other day he had an issue,
but he's learning how to focus and block that stuff out.
He's doing really well.
And of course he's a whiz with math.
Isn't it amazing?
He could do those magic square puzzles
when he was five years old.
I still can't do those puzzles.
Me neither.
Did you ever seek professional help for Mickey?
There were social workers and counselors.
The local school couldn't handle special needs students
so we got the state to pay for a tutor.
Math came easy of course
but he never grasped the social sciences.
He's working towards his G.E.D. you know.
You've raised a wonderful young man, Mrs. Tussler.
Thank you.
It's been challenging but I've tried to teach Mickey
to trust God and to be a good Christian.
We read the bible together.
He really takes that to heart.
What about you Mr. Murphy, do you have any children?
We had a wonderful son.
He'd be about Mickey's age now.
What happened?
He died from a very rare blood disorder
when he was 10 years old.
Oh, I'm so sorry, that's so sad.
You never really recover from a loss like that.
I'm sure you don't.
I kinda had a falling out with the man upstairs.
So to speak.
We're done.
Tomato soup is my favorite.
What about you Mr. Murphy?
I'm not a real big soup guy, Mick.
I don't like it when there is anything floating on top.
Like crackers or a piece of tomato.
Do you think a tomato is rounder than an orange?
Never gave it a whole lot of thought.
You know what, Mickey, it's been a long day.
How about we ride quiet for a little bit?
Okay.
Potatoes aren't round.
Hello, anyone here?
Hey Skip!
What's going on?
Cleats.
I can't move 'em.
Something's wrong.
Which one of you did this?
You know the rules.
Nothing permanent to the equipment.
Don't sweat it Mick.
I'll get a hammer.
Someone here's got a hammer, right?!
Real smooth guys.
I hope the jerk that did this is having a nice laugh.
Shoes.
They're broke.
Big trouble.
A mistake.
My fault.
It's okay Mick.
Whoever did this just has too much time on their idle hands!
What's going on in here?
Sorry coach,
some jerk just nailed Mick's cleats to the bench.
Hey Mick, you okay, bud?
The guys are just playing.
That's all.
Right Mr. Murphy?
That's right they're just playing.
They're not going to do that ever again.
Understood!
It's okay, Mick, okay bud.
We'll get you some new cleats.
You wanted to see me Warren?
Come in Murph.
Close the door please.
Have a seat.
Your kid did it again.
He's a work in progress too.
He's going to get better.
I must say I had my doubts.
But this whole business with Mickey
has put this team on the map.
Our service picked up a piece about the autistic pitcher
from Ohio.
A real human interest story.
Nice to see the stands full too.
You got that right.
Let me ask you Murph.
Who are you starting Saturday against the Bullets?
Lefty or the Kid?
I haven't decided.
We've got a VIP coming.
Is that right?
Governor Harrigan.
That's great news.
Might be real smart for everybody if you start the kid?
He's not up in the rotation Warren.
I got to think about his arm, I don't want him hurt.
Wouldn't hurt if the Governor got a good look at the boy.
Warren, I need to do what's best for the team.
Just because the governor is going to be here
doesn't mean I start the kid.
I love it Murph, you're a purist.
That's why I've kept you around,
given you so many chances.
What?
The spotlight will be on the Rats this weekend.
Don't blow it.
Excuse me Warren.
I have some managing to do.
Mr. Murphy.
Come in Mick, take a seat.
How are you doing?
How are things at the house with the fellas?
All good Mr. Murphy.
All good.
Did Pee Wee tell you to say that?
Yes.
Up high.
Down low.
Too slow!
Alright, you are learning a lot of new things.
That's great.
So the guys are helping you out,
giving you everything you need?
Ya, the guys are real nice.
What do you guys do in your free time, for fun?
We make dinner, watch TV.
Play video games.
Video games?
Did you know that Pee Wee can't hit in the video game either?
Mick, so how'd you like to start today's game for us?
Lefty still has pitches left.
What do you mean?
Lefty threw 76 pitches last game.
Usually throws 130 sometimes 136.
He still has 54 pitches left.
Maybe more.
Did you count his pitches?
I'm good at math.
You're great, you're fantastic at math.
How do you feel?
Your arm feeling good?
You think you could start the game for us today?
It's a big game.
But Lefty's pitches?
I'll tell you what, you can borrow Lefty's pitches
and pay him back later.
We do it all the time.
Okay, I could do that Mr. Murphy.
Alright Mick, then you're our guy.
Hey, down low.
Oh, too slow.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
let's extend a warm welcome
to our special guests to today's game.
Governor Walter Harrigan!
Today's starting Pitcher for the River Rats,
Mickey Tussler.
Come on now, look alive!
Mickey!!
Strike 1!
Time!
Whoa, whoa, whoa!!
Time out has been called on the field.
Let's look at that glove.
Sherlock Holmes here wants to look at my glove.
Says there's something wrong...
Gimme that, what is that, paint?
Painted a target on your glove?
That's got to be illegal.
What?!
There's nothing in the rule book that says you can't have
a little bit of paint inside a glove!!!
He's just trying to get inside my pitcher's head.
A little bit?!
Does that look like a little bit?
I don't think so.
It's a little bit of paint and it's not illegal.
Murphy, I'm sorry but I'm at a loss here.
You might be right.
Be that as it may, I have to take the glove out of the game.
Wow, unbelievable!
Give the guy a break, Murph.
He's trying to do his job.
So I'm supposed to let him take my glove?!
It's lucky, it's my charm.
I'm not gonna let him take it!!!!
We'll use the extra mitt for now.
After the game we'll clean yours up.
It will be good as new.
This is bush...
I don't make the rules.
Let's go!
They're making Boxcar change his glove
something about the paint.
Will it have an apple?
You put it there.
Use your imagination.
It's so loud.
Because they're cheering for you.
They're all cheering for you.
Just block it all out.
Just pretend you're back on the farm with Oscar.
With Oscar?
Okay.
You can do this Mick.
Will it have an apple?
You put it there.
Use your imagination.
Mickey, forget about all the people.
This is about you.
Let's go win a ribbon son.
Play ball!
Use your imagination.
You put it there.
You're outta there!!!!
Wow!!!!!!
Must've been a bad bat.
Right Murph?
Or a really hard ball.
Right.
I never seen heat like that before.
But at what price?
Lefty, Lefty!!!
Should've been me out there.
I know, it's totally unfair.
If they are not going to let you play,
shouldn't we able to sit together in the dugout?
Are you bonkers?
Do you have any idea what I'm talking about right now?
No.
Is that from some girl?
No.
Just go home, okay?
I'll call you later.
Promise.
Yeah.
Okay guys, good win, good win!
Way to finish it out today!
Well done!
Good job, guys!
Hey Mick, you okay?
A little tired Mr. Murphy.
That's understandable after a performance like that.
That was magnificent.
I've never seen a ball cut a bat like that in my life.
I'm sorry it won't happen again.
No, that's a good thing.
What you did today was great.
Really, really good.
Thanks, Mr. Murphy.
Murph, just call me Murph.
Okay, Mr. Murph.
Great job, Mickey.
Hey guys, listen up for a sec.
Party at Fletcher field tonight.
You guys are all invited.
Yeah!!!!
How 'bout you Sauce?
Wanna come out tonight, hang with the guys?
I don't know Lefty.
I don't think Skip would appreciate me
dragging Mick out to a party.
So many people and all.
Come on, we're all friends, right?
Okay Lefty.
I will come to your party.
See, I like this guy.
If he gives you trouble, leave him at home.
See you guys tonight.
♪
Alright Sauce.
We're not going to stay too long.
We'll say what's up to the fellas, then go home, okay?
Okay.
Hey guys, what's up?
Thanks for coming.
Sauce, looking fine.
I see PeeWee here is your fashion consultant.
Nice bling, extremely nice bling.
Nice sideburns, you're about an inch short of an Elvis lawsuit.
Thank you.
What's going on, man?
This isn't like you to throw a party.
What do you mean?
I'm throwing a party, loosen up.
I've got some friends I want you to meet.
Ladies, this is PeeWee right here.
PeeWee, ladies?
Mick, I'll be back.
He'll be back.
Mick, there's someone special I want you to meet.
Laney, this is Mickey.
Mickey, Laney.
I know all about you Mickey.
I'm a big fan... of the River Rats.
Huge fan of the River Rats, that's what I meant to say.
You guys have fun, okay?
Mickey, you're amazing out there.
What's it like pitching for the Rats?
Pretty good.
Must be hard coming up against all those hitters.
Just try to forget about the noise and all the people.
What do you think about?
Throwing apples on the farm.
My pet pig Oscar.
Uh, I wouldn't have thought of that.
Sit by me, Mickey.
Anyone ever tell you that you're cute?
My mama says I'm cute back home.
Ever had a girlfriend?
I have friends who is a girl.
That's not what I meant.
C'mon, let's go for a walk.
There's a path in the woods.
But the fellas.
We're celebrating.
We can throw our own party.
What?
Look at Mr. Ain't like you to throw a party.
Singing a different tune now, huh PeeWee?
Where's Mickey?
He's good.
He's out making new friends and having fun.
All good.
I don't know, I don't feel good about this.
It's okay.
I'll make sure he gets home all right.
Are you sure?
I'm sure.
Have you talked to Murph?
I'll talk to him.
You relax, have a good time.
Ever just sit at night Mickey and look at the stars?
My mama said that God's promises were like the stars
the darker the night, the brighter they shine.
I like that.
When I was a little girl my dad and me would stare at the stars
for hours.
I can name them all.
Andromeda, Orion, the Big Dipper.
I like you Mickey.
I don't know what Lefty is up to.
He never has told me to be nice to anyone before.
Wait here.
I'll go get him.
I won't move a muscle.
No more heat from you, farm boy!!!
Say good-bye to your arm!!!
What do you mean he's missing?!
How does this happen, PeeWee?
I feel terrible coach, I know I let you down.
You let me down?
What about Mickey, did you even look for him?
All night, haven't slept.
Alright everyone, bring it in!
Bring it in, guys!
If anyone knows anything
about what happened to Mickey last night,
now's the time to step up.
The Sheriff has been notified and I promise you
he will not ask as nicely as I am right now.
Do you guys understand how serious this is?
PeeWee, how did this happen?
I was partying, Mickey was having a good time.
Lefty promised he'd take care of him.
Sauce was having a good time.
He met a girl.
I thought hey why squash.
You let him leave with that girl?!
Look Skip, I was looking for him, I couldn't find him.
You sure you didn't have anything to do with this?
The party, the Mr. Nice Guy routine?
What are you saying?
Everyone knows you're threatened by Mickey.
How does it feel to be second fiddle?
Alright guys, enough!
We're a team!
Don't forget that, let's start acting like it.
No practice today!
You guys find Mickey!!
You sold out Mickey and you sold out this team!
It's not my job to baby-sit!
You gotta be kidding me!!!
What do you mean he's missing?
He went out with the guys last night.
Things got a little out of hand.
He disappeared from the party.
And nobody was watching out for him.
Where were you?
The team wanted to celebrate.
They don't want me hanging around with them.
And Mickey is part of the team.
I don't know what I was thinking.
You find that boy, Arthur!!
Or you'll find yourself back in A-ball
eating your dinner from a paper plate!!!
Okay, Ralph, thank you.
Let me know if you hear anything.
Mr. Murphy,
I'm Sheriff Billings.
Do you have some news about Mickey?
I've got more than news.
Mickey!
What happened to you?
My head hurts.
Come here, sit down.
Found him wandering on a road on the west side of town.
Took a pretty good beating last night.
That's a heck of a bump.
Here, have some water.
Who did this to you, Mickey?
Home, lights out.
Hasn't been making a whole lot of sense.
Drink up.
Mickey's got Asperger's syndrome.
A form of autism.
Autism shmatism,
Sure wouldn't know anything is up when he's on that mound.
I've seen him pitch a few games.
He's got a gift, this one.
Doesn't look like he'll play ball for a while though.
I'll get some more information out of him
when he starts to feel better.
You guys are going to follow up on this, right?
It won't be taken lightly around here.
I'll need to talk to some of your players.
They'll cooperate 100 percent.
I guarantee that.
Let me know if he comes up with anything.
Thank you Sheriff.
You okay, Mickey?
I'm sorry.
Let's get you cleaned up.
I'll never let anything like this happen to you ever again.
Home, lights out.
Welcome home Mickey.
This isn't my home.
I know, it's my home.
You'll be staying with me for a little while.
Well this is it.
Not much but you'll be safe here.
Thank you for letting me stay with you, Mr. Murphy.
Should have done it from the beginning.
I'm really sorry I wasn't there for you, Mick.
It's okay.
You'll be staying in this room.
This was my son's room.
He played baseball.
Ya, would've been pretty good too.
You should be comfortable here.
If you need to use the restroom,
it's right through this door.
We have this book.
Mama reads it to me.
Haven't picked that up in a little while.
Just put it on the shelf there, if you want.
I'd keep it close...
if that's okay?
Whatever feels right.
And right now that should be rest.
See you in the morning.
Good night, Mr. Murphy.
Good night son.
The doctor says you have a mild concussion.
How do you feel?
Still sore but the medicine helps.
We're going to have to keep you out of action for a few weeks.
I talked to your mom.
What about my dad?
Well, your mom said she'd take care of that.
As long as you're doing okay.
She really supports you, Mick.
So does your father.
Is she feeding Oscar?
I'm sure the little guy is well taken care of.
What I want to know Mick is,
do you want to go home for a little while?
Forget about this baseball stuff?
Cause if you do...
Who's gonna keep the scorecards?
We'll find someone else to do that.
Of course, we'd all miss you
but I want to make sure you're comfortable.
I like being on the team.
You'll be our resident scorekeeper and statistician.
Until you come back and are ready to pitch again.
Are you okay with that?
I'm sure.
Do you remember anything from that night,
anything at all?
You tell me and I'll tell the Sheriff.
Home, lights out.
Strike!
Laney, I haven't seen you in such a long time.
Well, well, I'd like to say this is a good sign
you calling on me.
I feel terrible about something I did.
You want a glass of water?
No thank you.
Tell me what happened?
I helped some people hurt an innocent man.
But I didn't know anything bad was going to happen
until it was too late.
As long as jealousy and self ambition exist,
people will act without regard for God.
How can I make this right?
The bible tells us that, "God is faithful,
and he will not tempt you beyond your ability,
but will also provide the way of escape,
that you may be able to endure it."
What does that mean exactly?
If you have information, you must do the right thing.
Do you think you can do that, Laney?
Yes, yes.
I can Pastor.
Did you see this?
You guys see this?
What's going on?
We shut them down yesterday.
George, can I see you for a minute.
You should read that.
What's up Skipper?
Someone wants to talk to you.
Have a seat Mr. Rogers.
Or should I call you Lefty?
Don't matter.
What's this all about?
I'd like to get your version of what happened
the night of Mickey's assault.
I don't know anything more than what you've already been told.
Your teammates say you were the last one to see Mickey.
Is that right?
Could be.
And he left the party with a young lady?
Uh-huh.
What time was that?
Hard to say, 11:00 maybe.
Any sign of trouble?
A quarrel perhaps, maybe some kind of misunderstanding?
Not that I'm aware of.
The girl.
Ever see her before?
Yeah, I seen her around the ballpark a few times.
Saw a game the other day, pretty impressive.
Thanks?
Must be pretty hard for you guys lately.
With Mickey being on the shelf and all.
It's a shame.
Hurts the whole team, but we're doing okay.
I'm willing to bet that a pitching performance like that,
with all those people yelling your name
and everyone taking your picture.
That goes a long way to curing the hurt.
What exactly do you want from me Sheriff?
Just asking a few questions.
You asked a few questions,
I answered a few questions and I got a game to prepare for.
If we're done here...
Not so fast Rogers.
I got a warrant for your arrest as the primary suspect
in the Tussler assault case.
I told you that I didn't do anything.
I got a witness says you're guilty.
A witness, who?
You have a right to remain silent.
Anything you say can and will be used against you
in a court of law.
Skip?
Out of my hands, George.
Let's go.
It's going to be alright, Mickey.
Get ready guys we gotta game, let's go.
Now this whole thing can go down easy, or hard.
You tell me the truth I will do what I can on the easy side.
Last chance to help you, son.
They told me they were friends of Mickey,
so I thought they knew him.
Who's they?
I don't know, a couple of guys.
They came up to me at the party,
never saw them before.
Said they wanted to surprise Mickey.
Pretty thin stuff, hard to go easy on you.
Unless you got something I could use.
I didn't know what they had planned.
If I knew they were going to hurt Mickey
I never would have done it.
We got a young lady on record saying
you asked her to get Mickey alone,
away from the party so you could set him up.
Who?
Nice girl named Laney Juris.
Ring any bells?
That ain't true!
So what?
I don't call her back a couple of times
and she lies about me to the police?
You two have a history?
We went out a few times.
What it looks like to me Mr. Rogers
is that this country boy blew into town
and became a thorn in your side.
He stole your thunder then you used this poor girl
to get rid of him so you could be the star again.
Almost worked too.
Except your girlfriend couldn't keep her mouth shut.
Probably a jury will feel sorry for her, she'll walk.
You keep playing it the hard way,
you could be looking at jail time.
I'm innocent Sheriff.
It wasn't me.
Of course it wasn't.
Never is.
I can't believe Lefty'd do that to Mickey.
Terrible.
Whatever happened to sportsmanship, team spirit?
Three games left and I've lost my two top pitchers.
There's this kid out at Toledo...
No, no.
No more recruiting trips.
It worked well enough last time.
That was a miracle.
Well make it happen again.
Get your boy back, or get someone else.
I'm trying.
I'm working with the kid but he's got no control.
It's like he forgot how to pitch.
It's a little late in the season to be starting from scratch.
That's it!
That's it, thank you.
Murph, Murph!
Where did these apples come from?
I got them for you.
I think there's too many, I can't do it.
I've seen you throw twice as many on the farm.
To eat, there's too many to eat.
You have been hanging around PeeWee too long.
No, Mickey, I want you to take these apples
and toss them into the crate..
Like you used to back on the farm.
Is Oscar here?
Oscar's not here but maybe this will ring a bell.
Oscar!
You think I could keep this?
Yeah, you could keep this, that's for you.
That's for you, absolutely!
Thank you.
Just imagine we're on the farm, Oscar's hanging out,
and you're going to feed the animals.
Throw a few apples into the barrel.
Just go ahead, give it a shot.
Alright!
Hey, Mick!!
I don't think I can do it.
You can do it, just relax.
It's a beautiful day on the farm.
The animals are hungry, that's it.
Alright, you're getting there, Mick.
You're getting there!
Try it again.
You're doing better.
Just nice and relaxed, relax, Bud!
Oh, ho!!!
I think I just gave up a homer!
Alright!
You just feed the animals.
I'm going to step up to bat.
Don't worry about me, at all.
Go ahead, put it in there!
Wow!!
That's beautiful!
That's fantastic!
How do you feel?!!
I feel pretty good Mr. Murphy.
Feel good enough to start Saturday's game,
the championship game against the Bullets?
I think you can.
I mean I think I could.
I know you can Mick.
Well then I know I can too.
Alright.
You want to throw a couple more?!
Yeah, let's throw a few more!
Alright!
I tried to stop him.
His mind's already made up.
Why?
He already got hurt once.
I don't think so Mr. Murphy.
He's right over here.
Mickey, you have some visitors here to see you.
Mom, Dad,
You're here to watch me pitch today?
Get your stuff Mickey.
We're leaving.
I missed you so much.
How are you feeling?
All better.
I already told you, boy.
We're going home.
Let's go.
He worked so hard for this!
He can handle this, right Mick!
Mick?
You see what I mean?
Not in front of all those people.
Not my boy.
Why don't you try supporting your son,
instead of doubting him all the time?
What is that supposed to mean?
Any father would be thrilled to watch their son pitch
in the big game.
He's mentally disabled sir.
Out of touch with reality.
And he don't belong here.
He belongs at home where he'd be safe and away from trouble.
I respectfully disagree.
I think Mickey needs this team and I know we need Mickey.
I know exactly what Mickey needs.
I'll be outside.
This place smells worse than my barn.
This is so unfair to Mickey, it is so wrong.
He's pretty stubborn when he gets an idea in his head.
And he definitely doesn't like to be spoken to like that.
Can't you see how important this is for your son?
Look!
I had no idea.
Clarence, there's something I want you to see.
What is it now?
That's my picture.
That's right Mickey.
And we're so proud of you.
Please Clarence.
Let him play.
I'm afraid for him, Molly.
You've never given him a chance.
From what Mr. Murphy says, Mickey is talented.
And if he loses, so what?
At least we gave him the opportunity.
Failure is never an opportunity.
This is Mickey's life.
We have to let him find his own path.
Just because he didn't turn out the way you expected,
he's still our son.
Your Son, Clarence Tussler,
has a chance to make something of himself.
Mickey, is this what you want?
Yes.
Your mom is never wrong.
I guess you've got a game to pitch.
Thank you Dad.
Okay son.
Go get him.
Alright fellas, bring it in.
This whole season comes down to one game.
One game!
And we'll be in the playoffs.
By now you've all heard that Lefty will be pitching
for the Bullets today.
It's inexcusable, he shouldn't be out there.
But this is our chance to show them that
we're the better team, on and off the field.
Yeah!
A rat never treats another rat like a rat!
Unless it's Lefty who's a bigger rat than when he was a rat.
The good news is this, Mickey, our boy wonder is back
and he's full of fire.
Isn't that right, Mick?
Fast ball at 92.75 miles an hour.
67.75 miles an hour faster than a school zone.
27.75 miles an hour faster than freeway speed.
That's right, exactly.
Alright look guys, nobody gave us a chance to be here,
but through great team work here we are.
Now, get past any baggage that you had about Lefty.
Every pitch he's going to throw today will have a grudge on it.
Don't fall for it.
Stay in our game.
A team is only as strong as its weakest link.
And the good lord has found a way to put the weakest link
on the other team.
Now if that is not a sign, I don't know what is.
Yeah!
So let's not let him down.
Everybody take a knee.
Dear Lord...
God bless our team, give us the strength to perform
to the best of our abilities.
Keep our team and our opponents free from injury.
May our fair actions and sportsman-like conduct
bless us with a well-deserved victory.
Amen.
Alright everybody hands in.
Rats on three.
One, Two, Three...
Rats!!!
He's pretty comfortable up on that mound, sir.
Mr. Tussler I'd like to apologize for before.
I shouldn't have questioned you in front of your son.
At least we agree on something.
Yes, sir.
Thank you for reconsidering.
Don't stand there yapping, play some baseball.
Yes, sir.
You've outdone yourself this time, Chip.
For bail money,
that's chump change well spent.
Don't forget that arm,
it is attached to damaged goods,
comes with consequences.
It always does with you.
Baseball is our game, Chip.
We don't purposely hurt our own.
Especially a kid like Mickey.
I don't know what you're talking about.
I'll pray for you.
Save your breath Murph, you'll live longer.
If you both save your breath you'll live longer.
One more thing, Chip...
Yeah, what's that?
I forgive you.
You enjoying your seats?
Very much.
One more thing: Stay away from the Nachos.
The cheese sauce, world's greatest mystery.
Thank you, PeeWee.
What's a Nachos?
Let's give a warm welcome to the great River Rats!
Today's champion will advance to the play-offs.
Starting pitcher for the the Fargos is Lefty Rogers,
and for River Rats, Mickey Tussler.
Ohhh...
♪
Mick, it's all yours.
Finish the job son.
Okay, one more thing.
I know, you're not my son.
No, I'm not.
Your son is up there looking down on us.
Alright Mick, let's go!
Let's go Rats!
3-2... top of the ninth.
What a game it's been.
Up for the Bullets, Lefty Rogers.
Strike!
Foul ball, down the third base line.
Strike!
I love you, Mickey!!!
Lefty, I love you Lefty!!!
And for Fargo, No. 7, LaRue.
The Rats are one hour away
from winning the division championship.
Now pitch-hitting for Fargo's No. 9, Rocco Hightower.
Hightower holds this season's RVI record.
And is leading in the league with 53 home runs.
Boos!!!
Time.
Time!
And the Rats have called time out.
What's going on?
Rules are rules, right?
I couldn't help but notice that Rocco here has something
painted on his glove.
And believe me I know what that means.
They're batting gloves.
Gloves are gloves.
Rules are rules, right Blue?
Afraid Murph's right Chip.
That's a decision...
Lose the gloves, Rocco!!!
Let's win this thing.
Show everybody who the losers really are.
Give me the gloves!
Ridiculous!
Looks like this game is finally under way here!
Time!
The Rats have called another time out on the field.
Mick, you okay?
That's him, that's the one that hurt me!
What are you talking about?
Home run, lights out.
Home run, lights out?
Rocco Hightower?
Yeah.
Oh...
Are you absolutely positive, Mickey.
Yes, yes.
This is bigger than baseball.
I'm going to call this right here,
it ends right now.
This game's over!
No!
No.
I need to finish this.
For you, for the team...
For everybody.
And for me.
Are you sure about this, Mick?
Yes.
Yes, yes...
Alright, buddy, okay.
And once again the game is underway.
Play ball!
Strike!
Your boy is going to give one up.
When he does, I'm going to be all over it.
Strike!
I know when they took my glove away,
I had a real bad day.
I'm just saying.
I love you Mickey!!!!!
No more heat from you, farm boy!
Say good-bye to your arm.
A knuckle ball is the hardest pitch to hit.
Not even the pitcher knows where it's going.
Trust your ability.
Let the ball do the rest!
Strike!!!
It looks like the Rats are on their way
to the play-offs.
We've got those two.
Great game son!
I'm sorry Mickey, I haven't been fair to you.
Seeing you out here, on this field in that uniform,
as part of the team.
It made me realize how wrong I was.
I was never good at anything
so I never believed that you could succeed either.
You're my son.
You're a remarkable young man.
Please forgive me, I know I could be a good father.
You already are.
I love you, Mickey.
Love you too.
Now you get out there with your team!
Strike!
So how am I doing?
Not bad Dad,
Just be ready for that knuckle ball.
Got no idea where it's going?
'Cause it's got no idea where it's going.
But if you believe and hold out your hand,
it will surprise you every time.