You’ve heard the famous story
of the man who thrilled the crowd.
You’ve heard of all his exploits.
How he made the home fans proud.

But there’s another version
from the dugout ‘cross the field.
A tale of epic dominance,
from the one who wouldn’t yield.

On this day in late September
as Autumn brought its gloam,
a vic’try meant the playoffs
a loss meant staying home.

So the Cats of Tuscaloosa
were desperate for a win.
And through the first eight innings
they wore their Cheshire grin.

The Felines held a two run lead,
their pitcher, brave and stout.
The ninth was going swimmingly
as the first two grounded out.

But then the hurler faltered
and the next two both reached base.
In stepped the mighty slugger
with a scowl upon his face.

The fans roared with emotion,
their hero heard their begs
to send ‘em back to ‘Bama
with their tails between their legs.

Though Boyd and Jones were in the pen
the skipper, he chose neither.
He knew this moment surely called
for the nastiest of relievers.

So with baseball glory calling
both destiny and fate,
the strapping closer took the mound
and the hero took the plate.

The rivals each stared daggers,
they were masters of their sport.
And though I could go on all day,
I’ll make this long story short.

You’ve seen this new perspective
but the outcome never switches.
The hero earned his infamy
striking out on three straight pitches.

As the Felines piled upon themselves
the crowd made not a sound.
There was no joy in Mudville.
Not with Maddy on the mound.