Jake's Giant Dream

About 3 months ago, Wade and I, trying to motivate Jake into being a better more consistent pitcher, made a deal with him. We promised that if he ever pitched a no-hitter Wade would take him to San Francisco to see a Giants home game. Parents make these far fetched promises all the time right? Well, about 3 weeks ago he did it. Wade tried his best to argue himself out of a potentially very costly bet.
Wade: That wasn't a no hitter, kids got on base, runs were scored!
Jake: Those weren't my fault. Those were fielding errors Dad.
Wade: I still don't think that counts as a no hitter Jake.
Jake: Oh yes it does. Look it up. You didn't bet me that I would pitch a perfect game. You bet me that I would pitch a no hitter and that's what I did so pay up Dad.

As you can see, Jake is a very persuasive arguer. Future in politics? Well, Wade finally acquiesced and booked the trip. It had to be done in a very quick fashion as the Giants were on their last home stretch of the season the following week and were not going to make it to the playoffs. Plane tickets were booked. Game tickets were bought. Game on!

Jake in his 'First Class Southwest seat'. This was an early wake-up time even for him. Up at 4:30, out the door by 5:15, Flight left at 7:15.

After a quick flight, shuttle ride, Bart subway ride, and short walk they were there. AT&T Park, home of the Giants.


They were a bit early for the 12:15 game time so they spent an hour, and a Benjamin Franklin in the Gift shop gathering up souvenirs for the trip. Then it was on to the entrance gate. Open, Open, Open....
Wade does not do nose bleed seats when he has to fly to a game. He found these seats on EBay. Front row. Right by the dugout, right in front of the Bull Pen. Heaven.



Jake, along with being a persuasive arguer, is a very persuasive beggar. His goal was to get a game ball. He started early. He started loudly. He started pathetically. Voila. A very nice Field Umpire came over a chatted with them and gave him a game ball. Score #1.

This game happened to be the last game for Pat Burell who sadly has contracted a career ending foot disease. Here's a distant pic of Jake's hero Tim Lincecum giving Pat a high five after his retirement ceremony.

It was a great game even though the Giants succumbed to a loss. Weather was beautiful. Father and Son had oodles of bonding time. Jake was frequently heard saying "This is the best day of my life" Way to be a hero Wade.

Well, you had to know that my persuasive little beggar walked away with not 1, not 2, but 3 game balls, One signed by Pat Burell himself.

Jake is a hardworking ball player that we hope has a fun future ahead of him. He is driven, dedicated, and determined to succeed and we have no doubt that he will. This was truly a 'Giant Dream Come True' for him. Funny thing is... I think Dad had just as much, if not more fun!