Orioles

Since Jonathan has never played a team sport before, or really any sport, I knew he'd need some practice. I was thinking more in terms of batting or catching practice. After his first practice I realized we'd have to start even more basic than that: running bases! At Jonathan's first practice, he ran to each base, jumped and then landed bottom-first on the base. He had a blast, but you see how this can effect his speed! So we came home that evening and simply practiced running bases.

They handed out uniforms at the first practice and Jonathan just couldn't wait to try it on.

Running bases in the yard


Having a ball!


Taking a break


Jonathan's team is the Orioles

Jonathan's 2nd game...up to bat

Jonathan bats just like he does everything else - in slow motion. It's hilarious to watch. Jonathan is also a lefty, but seems to bat better right-handed, and throw better left-handed.

Running to first...


Almost there...

Whew! Made it to 1st base!

Off to second...

Running home. High five from Coach Chris.

Too cute!

Playing the outfield. At this age, they don't really put them in actual position. They just all kind of stand in a group with their coach in the hopes that one of them might pay attention for long enough to get the ball when it gets hit. Once someone gets the ball they're instructed to throw it to 1st.

Giving a teammate a high five for getting the ball

Taking a knee, ready to catch the ball

Got it!

Jonathan mostly just plays with his hat in the outfield.

Up to bat again. Coach Chris helping him with his form.

Another hit!

I love his face. At least he remembered to drop the bat, many times the kid on his team take the bat to 1st with them!

Running the bases....

Almost home....

Jumping on home plate

Time for the end-of-game show of good sportsmanship. That's Jonathan in the middle of the line.

Jonathan loves the high fives, but he missed the part where he's supposed to walk (notice the front of the line has left, as Jonathan waits for the opposing team to come to him for their high fives.)

GOOO ORIOLES!

My Oriole, #5

After his game, we went to watch Clara's game

This is how Jonathan watched Clara's game!