Had the boys not rehearsed this play many times, they never could have worked it. Indeed, so swift was the ball that it almost knocked the second baseman over, while sharp pains ran through his arms. But he managed to hold the ball.
"Go back! Go back!" shouted the Landon contingent, as one man. "Don't force third."
In a desperate dive, the runner strove to reach second base. But Fred tagged him out.
FRED TAGGED HIM OUT
During this play, the man on third had started for home.
Warned by his team mates, Fred whipped the ball across the diamond in a low, straight throw.
"Runner out!" shouted the umpire, and a cheer of relief broke from the Baxter throats.