The ball went almost straight up in the air over first, until it seemed to lose itself in the sky. Fletcher came pounding down the base line, while Bully Carson, behind first, sent a roar at Clancy.
The red-haired first baseman was not rattled, however. He calmly stepped back, pulled down his cap, and waited. The ball came down like a bullet and stuck in his glove.
“Out!”
Roar after roar of applause went up. The Clippings, who had been nervous and unsettled, instantly regained their poise and confidence.
“Take your time, Chip!” snapped Spaulding, from second.
“That’s the ticket, old man!” cried McCarthy encouragingly.
“L-l-lam into ’em!” piped up Chub.
Frank smiled. Burkett, who covered first for the Clippers, advanced to the plate, pulled down his cap, and waited.
“We’re all behind you, old-timer,” chirped Clancy.
“Let him hit it, Chip!” cried Billy. None the less, he signaled for an inshoot.