Sounds of a baseball field echo in the background as a bright
light fills the screen, pulling back to reveal NOAH ROCKFORD,
twelve years old. He looks away from the glare of the sun and
stares down at the baseball resting in the palm of his small
hand. Noah grips the baseball tightly, leans on the dugout
fence and watches the action on the field, waiting.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
ANDREW HOOVER wipes the dripping sweat from his forehead.
Cowering and small, he is on the mound pitching for the
Warrior’s baseball team. The sun beats down, and the scoreboard
looms behind him, revealing a 7-6 baseball game. Runners are on
first and second with two outs. He looks like he is about to
cry.
EXT. BEHIND BATTER’S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Andrew’s Dad, TRIPP HOOVER, animated, imitates throwing a
baseball. He desperately tries to coach his son from the
sidelines, but it’s only making things worse.
TRIPP
Come on Andrew. Take deep breaths.
Throw a strike! Get out front!
Snap your wrist! Finish it! You
can do it!
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Andrew, mortified, inhales loudly. He winds up, throws the ball
and makes an awkward wrist snap motion. The ball hits the dirt
three feet from home plate, barely avoiding the passed ball.
UMPIRE
Take your base.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah grabs his mitt, anxious to take the mound.
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Bases are now loaded. Andrew starts sobbing.
2.
COACH
Time!
COACH WALKER heads out to the mound.
TRIPP
(yelling)
You can’t take him out! He just
came in for relief! Are you
kidding me? He just needs one more
out to win this!
The coach walks up to the mound. Andrew hands him the baseball.
ANDREW
What took you so long? I’m dying
out here.
Coach Walker turns to the dugout and waves in a player.
COACH
Rockford!
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah, stepping out of the dugout, takes the field. His
confidence and swagger is on full display. Noah passes Andrew
on the way to the mound and gives him a fist bump.
NOAH
You’ll get ‘em next time.
ANDREW
Thanks Noah.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
The coach places the ball in Noah’s mitt. Noah is all game
face.
COACH
Take us home, kid.
Noah carefully rearranges the dirt on the mound with his left
foot. He looks like a seasoned veteran, making sure everything
is just the way he likes it.
Noah looks to the stands and is distracted. Noah steps off of
the mound towards the distraction.
3.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Noah’s parents, RITA ROCKFORD and CAIN ROCKFORD are having a
heated argument. Rita instinctively raises her arms, a
defensive gesture shielding her face, as Cain’s grip tightens
around her wrist, pulling her towards him in a fraught moment.
RITA
I’m sorry..please..not here.
Rita looks over to Noah, nervously smiles and waves. Cain stops
and looks at Noah, lets go of Rita’s arm and steps back.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah gathers himself and channels his focus amidst the turmoil.
He digs his back foot firmly into the rubber, fixing his gaze
upon the batter with unwavering determination.
EXT. BATTER’S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The first batter stands in the batter’s box, trembling.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah’s heart pounds as he winds up with all of the force and
might that he has and hurls the ball towards the batter.
CUT TO:
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - DAY (2021)
Time jump, 5 years later.
The high school BATTER swings big and misses.
UMPIRE
Strike two!
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah, 16 years old, has doubled in size. His hair is long,
sticking out well below his baseball cap.
NOAH
(pumping his fist)
Let’s go!!
4.
EXT. PITCHER’S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah plants his rear foot in the rubber, winds up and fires a
curve ball at the batter. The batter hits a hard, line drive
back to Noah. He makes an impossible catch as his mitt flies
off his hand from the force of the hard-hit ball.
Noah spins, grabs the ball from the mitt, and fires the ball to
first base, making an exciting final out.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
A Bitter Reunion
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The players on the field erupt and the crowd explodes in
cheers.
Noah’s teammates swarm the mound in celebration of the victory.
Sixteen year-old Andrew Hoover is the first one to congratulate
Noah.
ANDREW
Saved my ass, again!
NOAH
You’ll get ‘em next time, Andrew.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Rita sits alone in the stands, her fervent support directed
towards Noah. Cain is conspicuously absent.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - LATER
Noah and Rita walk to Rita’s car.
NOAH
...my arm was starting to get
tired at the end.
RITA
We can ice it when we get home.
The scout from Ole’ Miss was
watching. And Clemson.
NOAH
...Coach said The Yankees were
there...
RITA
..You’re going to college, then
the Yankees...
Rita and Noah have had this conversation before.
5.
They are a few steps into the parking lot when they run into
Cain, alone and imposing, standing next to their car. They stop
dead in their tracks.
RITA
Noah, get in the car.
Noah stands his ground, ignoring his mother. Cain takes a step
towards them.
CAIN
Hi. You pitched a great game.
Noah’s fingers tighten around the bat’s handle as he moves
resolutely forward, positioning himself protectively between
his mother and Cain. Cain instinctively steps back. Noah has
grown into a formidable presence.
CAIN
I’m not trying to cause trouble. I
just wanted to say I’m sorry. For
everything. I know I did a lot
wrong.... It’s been hard living
with that. I would do anything to
take it all back. I don’t expect
you to forgive me, but I’ve
changed. I go to meetings every
day...sometimes twice a day and
I’ve got my life back on track.
Rita puts her hand on Noah’s shoulder.
RITA
That’s good to hear.
NOAH
Mom, let’s go.
Noah opens the car door, and Rita gets in the driver’s seat.
Noah walks around the other side and opens the passenger door.
Cain is desperate to get his son’s attention.
CAIN
You’re not getting out front.
NOAH
What?
CAIN
Your pitches. You need to release
out front. You’ll get more
velocity on your pitches.
(MORE)
6.
CAIN (CONT’D)
Sometimes you’re a little bit
behind.
Noah stops and steps towards Cain. Rita watches from the safety
of the car.
NOAH
I’m not getting out front? Really?
CAIN
Yes. You’re dropping your elbow.
NOAH
Oh. And I guess that’s something
you can help me with.
CAIN
I think so. I can get you to the
next level.
NOAH
(shaking his head)
No. See, I watched your film, to
study why you didn’t make it in
this game. And I discovered, in
addition to you being an abusive
prick, your pitching mechanics
sucked.
Noah steps closer to Cain and gets in his personal space.
NOAH (CONT’D)
Does that make you angry? Remember
how you would do this to Mom? Get
all up close, threaten her? Hurt
her? Hurt me?
Cain clenches his fists. Noah sees this.
NOAH (CONT’D)
(taunting)
Come on, take a swing at me.
Noah takes a step back into a fighting stance. Cain looks at
his son, but then backs down. Noah’s not so little anymore.
NOAH (CONT’D)
I didn’t think so.
Noah starts walking back to the car.
CAIN
Please, Noah...I’m sorry.
(MORE)
7.
CAIN (CONT’D)
You and your mother were the best
things in my life...please.
Noah climbs into the passenger seat.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Noah's Resolve
INT. CAR - CONTINUOUS
Rita takes a deep breath.
RITA
You ok?
NOAH
I’m good. Let’s go.
Rita drives off, leaving Cain standing alone in the parking
lot.
EXT. AN EMPTY BALL FIELD - DAY
Noah is alone, on the mound. He has a bucket of balls and
practices throwing into a net. One after the other, Noah throws
but is missing slightly. He stops throwing, squats down to the
ground and puts his head between his hands.
BEGIN FLASHBACK:
INT. NOAH’S BEDROOM - NIGHT (2016)
Rita lies in bed, head raised, a jagged cut marring her
forehead. Noah sleeps on the floor beside her, vigilant,
clutching a baseball bat.
A door slams. Noah darts up and hears his drunk Dad enter the
house.
CAIN(O.S)
Rita! Where are you? Noah? Where’s
your Mom?
Rita sits up in bed. She looks at Noah on the floor. His heart
is pounding.
RITA
Don’t worry. I can handle this.
Lock the door.
Rita gets out of the bed.
NOAH
...no Mom!
8.
RITA
It’s ok. Don’t worry. I can calm
him down. If things get out of
hand, I want you to run to the
neighbors. Understood?
CAIN (O.S.)
Rita? Where are you?
Rita goes into the hallway, leaving Noah behind.
INT. HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER
Rita sees Cain come out of the bedroom.
RITA
I fell asleep in Noah’s room.
Rita walks past Cain and goes into the kitchen. Cain follows.
INT. KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS
Rita opens the refrigerator and takes out some food.
RITA
Is it cold out? Temperature is
supposed to drop tonight. You
hungry?
She takes food out of the refrigerator and places it on the
counter. Cain walks over to Rita and gets in her space.
RITA
You want something to drink?
Rita tries to turn away, but Cain forcefully grabs her arm.
CAIN
Sleeping in Noah’s room. That’s
fucked up. You’re turning that boy
into a faggot.
His grip tightens. He towers over her.
RITA
Let’s just dial this down. It’s
late and Noah’s sleeping...
(begging)
Please stop. That hurts.
He squeezes tighter. Rita lets out a scream of pain.
9.
CAIN
Shut up!
Cain puts is hand around her throat and starts to strangle her.
Rita gasps for air. JUST THEN...Noah flies up behind his Dad
and hits him as hard as he can with the baseball bat. Cain goes
down. Rita falls down with him.
Noah drops the bat and rushes to help Rita get up.
NOAH
Run!
Rita stumbles down the hallway. Noah is right behind her when
suddenly Cain grabs him by the ankle and yanks him to the
ground. Noah kicks wildly trying to get away. Rita is all the
way at the door, screaming.
RITA
Leave him alone!! Stop!!
Noah’s hand fumbles for the bat that is only slightly out of
reach.
Noah kicks Cain in the face, reaches for the bat, grabs it and
takes a swing, connecting with his Dad’s shoulder. It’s enough
to get away and he is able to run out the door with his mother.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Family Torn Apart
EXT. ROCKFORD HOUSE - NIGHT
Sirens can be heard off in the distance. Police lights flash in
the background as Noah helps his mother walk. The neighbor runs
out of his house and helps them to safety.
NEIGHBOR
I heard the commotion and called
the police.
Cain stumbles out onto the porch, yelling.
CAIN
Get back here you bitch!
NEIGHBOR
Oh my God! Hurry!
Rita is struggling to stay on her feet as the neighbor helps
them to his house. Two police cars pull up and four officers
jump out. They are able to stop Cain, tackling him to the
ground before he can do more damage.
10.
CAIN
(yelling)
That bitch had it coming! I didn’t
touch her!
The officers pin Cain down and place him in handcuffs. Noah
stops and looks at his Dad, pathetic, on the ground.
CAIN (CONT’D)
He hit me with a baseball bat.
Noah looks so small compared to his father. He is breathing
heavily, tears in his eyes.
NOAH
He was killing my mother!
The officers pick Cain up off of the ground by the handcuffs.
He howls in pain.
POLICE OFFICER
Let’s go. You’re under arrest.
Noah never takes his eyes off of his father as the police drag
him away.
END FLASHBACK.
EXT. AN EMPTY BALL FIELD - DAY
Noah shakes his head, grabs another baseball, and throws into
the net.
CAIN (O.S.)
More from the shoulders.
Noah turns, startled by Cain’s presence. Trying to ignore his
Dad, he grabs another baseball and continues throwing, still
missing slightly.
CAIN (CONT’D)
Use your legs to drive forward.
Create a straight line towards the
bag.
Noah can’t help but listen. He winds up and throws a perfect
strike. Noah grabs his empty bucket and walks to the net to
gather up the baseballs. Cain follows and helps.
CAIN (CONT’D)
I was a rookie playing AAA for the
Tides.
(MORE)
11.
CAIN (CONT’D)
I was tired from lack of
sleep..your Mom was with me on the
road and you were just a colicky
infant. We had just beaten the Mud
Hens and as exhausted as I was, I
was pitching a perfect game up
until the final inning. I got one
bad call at the plate, or at least
I thought it was a bad call and I
lost my temper. Nearly blew the
game with only one out to go. A
sports writer for The Beacon wrote
“Cain Rockford pitches with
glimmers of greatness. Too bad his
pitching talent is overshadowed by
his bad attitude and lack of
focus. He’ll never make it in the
big leagues.” He was right about
me. But you...you’ve got more
talent than I ever had..and the
right attitude, despite everything
I put you through. I know the
things I did and said to you and
your mother...I can’t take any of
it back. But let me at least try
and make it up to you. I can get
you to the next level.
Cain turns to walk away then stops.
CAIN (CONT’D)
I’ll be here tomorrow morning at 8
am. Hopefully, I’ll see you then.
Noah incredulously watches as Cain walks away.
NOAH
I guess that was my fault. And
Mom’s.
CAIN
What are you talking about?
NOAH
You were tired. Because of me. And
that’s why you lost your temper.
CAIN
That’s not what I meant.
Noah, angry, throws the baseball in the bucket. Cain startles
slightly.
12.
NOAH
You don’t even see it. Nothing is
ever your fault. You think you can
show up here, make some bullshit
speech about helping me get to the
next level, and it’s all good? I’m
not training with you. You make me
sick! Stay away from me and you
sure as hell stay away from Mom.
Cain looks dejected.
CAIN
Son, please. I’ve changed. Let’s
just take it a day at a time.
NOAH
(shaking his head)
Son?? Nope. Nope. I remember
everything you did to us!
Everything! I don’t trust you and
I never will. I mean it. You stay
away. We’re better off without
you.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
A Mother's Support
INT. NOAH’S HOUSE - LATER
Rita sits at the kitchen table. She has a stack of bills in
front of her. Noah walks in and heads for the refrigerator.
RITA
Hey there.
Noah grabs a gallon of chocolate milk from the fridge, a glass
from the counter, and sits at the table. He’s lost in his
thoughts.
RITA (CONT’D)
OK. What happened?
NOAH
Dad stopped by the ball field. He
wants to train me.
Rita reaches out and grabs Noah’s hand.
RITA
I’m not going to tell you what to
do, it’s something for you to
decide...but whatever that
decision is, I’ll support you.
13.
NOAH
He’s dangerous. I don’t care how
many times he says he’s sorry.
RITA
Oh..I don’t think so..he’s not
drinking anymore and he looked
good..
NOAH
Don’t fall for it. I remember like
it was yesterday. It’s not
happening.
Rita lets go of Noah’s hand. Noah senses her discomfort with
the conversation and pivots.
NOAH (CONT’D)
On another note, I think I need
new cleats. The insides are all
worn out.
RITA
Seriously? OK, let me see what I
can juggle here.
NOAH
Mom, it’s ok. I’m good for a
while...sorry.
RITA
Hey. You can’t pitch without
cleats. I’ll figure something out.
I always do!
NOAH
One day in the not too distant
future you won’t have to worry
about money ever again. I promise
you.
RITA
Just get good grades. College is
the goal.
NOAH
An MLB signing bonus is the goal
Come on, you can come to all of my
games, sit with my future
supermodel girlfriend and watch me
throw strikes.
Noah gets up from the table and grabs his baseball bag in the
corner.
14.
RITA
How about I watch you throw
strikes at your game later today.
I might be late though. I have to
wait for the cable guy to fix the
internet. They better show up on
time.
NOAH
Sure. See you later. I love you
Mom.
RITA
Love you too.
Noah gives his Mom a quick hug and heads out the door.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Noah's Big Game
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY
Noah drives up to the field and parks his bicycle. Players from
both teams are on opposite sides of the field warming up.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Men with clipboards, stopwatches, radar guns, etc. are already
well-placed in the bleachers watching the warm-up action. They
all turn at the same time and look at Noah.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah, unfazed, walks onto the field and places his bag in the
dugout. He sits on the bench and changes into his cleats.
COACH MOORE (O.S.)
Hey Rockford!
COACH MOORE, mid forties, stands by the third base line.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah grabs his glove from his bag and heads out of the dugout.
NOAH
Yes, Coach?
COACH MOORE
You see this?
Coach Moore shows Noah a clipboard with all of the scouts who
have signed in. They both turn and look at all of the baseball
scouts.
15.
COACH MOORE (CONT’D)
There are scouts here from almost
every MLB team in the country
trying to find the next great
southpaw. They’re all looking at
you kid. I wish I could take
credit for it, but I can’t. You’ve
got a God-given gift. Just go out
there today and do your thing.
Make us proud.
NOAH
(laughing)
No sweat.
EXT. ROCKFORD HOUSE - SAME TIME
A man’s hand knocks on the Rockford door.
RITA(O.S.)
Hang on...
The front door opens, revealing Rita.
RITA
Hey, thanks for coming.
The CABLE GUY stands at the door.
CABLE GUY
You had a bad splitter coming into
the house. It’s all fixed. I just
need to reset your modem and run a
quick check for you.
Rita lets him into the house.
RITA
Come in. It’s right in the hallway
closet.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD PARKING LOT - DAY
A late-model sedan pulls into a parking space. ANTHONY
BRUNETTI, mid-fifties and scout for the New York Yankees is
behind the wheel.
ANTHONY
(to himself)
Ok, Anthony. Let’s see what this
kid’s got.
16.
Anthony reaches over to the glove box, pulls out a flask, and
takes a big swig. He’s about to place the flask back in the
glove box, but changes his mind and instead puts it in his
jacket pocket.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD BLEACHERS - MOMENTS LATER
Anthony walks up to the bleachers. All of the other scouts take
notice.
SCOUT #1
Oh my goodness. Look what the cat
dragged in. Anthony Brunetti.
SCOUT #2
Wow! Now I know we’re in trouble
if they let you in here.
ANTHONY
Very funny. I’m here for the same
reason ya’ll are here. To check
out this Noah Rockford kid.
SCOUT #1
The Yankees already have their
sights set on that kid from South
Carolina, what’s his name...
SCOUT #2
Donnie Stevens. Yea, there’s
nothing for you to see here.
Anthony remains unfazed.
ANTHONY
Don’t worry, boys. I’ll keep my
distance.
Anthony sits in the row right behind everyone.
UMPIRE (O.S.)
Play ball!
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Noah's Impressive Pitching Performance
EXT. BALL FIELD - DAY
The game starts. Noah takes the mound for the home team. He
faces the first batter.
The first batter steps into the box. Noah winds up and throws
the first pitch. It’s a strike looking.
PARENT IN STANDS
Ok, now you’re ready!
17.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Scouts in the stands meticulously scrutinize every movement,
Some record the action, their cameras capturing every nuance.
SCOUT #1
Not bad for sixteen.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah holds the mitt to his chest, hiding the ball from the
hitter. He gets his grip, winds up and throws a beautiful curve
ball. It’s a swing and a miss.
UMPIRE
Strike three!
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Anthony watches and films from the bleachers.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah does his usual brush of the dirt on the mound and digs his
foot into the rubber. He pushes his long hair behind his ears
and adjusts his cap.
The batter stares down Noah and is ready.
Noah winds up and throws a beautiful fastball that paints the
outside corner. It’s a strike looking.
UMPIRE
Strike!
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
All of the scouts intently watch Noah.
UMPIRE (O.S.)
Strike two!
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The batter shakes his head in disgust.
BATTER
(to himself)
Just swing the bat.
18.
The batter sets up and is ready. Noah winds up and throws the
same pitch. It's a third strike looking. The batter hits the
ground in disgust with his bat.
UMPIRE
Strike three! You’re out!
Noah quickly runs off of the field to the dugout.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah and the rest of the team pile into the dugout. Noah goes
to the fence, concerned, and looks into the stands for his Mom.
INT. ROCKFORD HOUSE - SAME TIME
Rita grabs her purse and is heading for the door. She opens the
door and stops in her tracks.
RITA
What do you want?
Cain is standing in the doorway, blocking Rita.
CAIN
Can I talk to you?
RITA
(unsure)
I was just heading to Noah’s
game...
Rita attempts to push past Cain, but he towers over her and
easily blocks her from leaving. He pushes her back inside the
house and shuts the door behind him.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Noah's Focus Under Pressure
EXT. DUGOUT - SAME TIME
Noah, cell phone in hand, walks from the fence over to Coach,
who is at the end of the dugout looking at the lineup.
COACH MOORE
Brody, you’re on deck. Smith,
you’re in the hole.
NOAH
Coach, my Mom’s not here and she’s
not answering her phone.
COACH MOORE
She’s probably just running late.
(MORE)
19.
COACH MOORE (CONT’D)
Keep that arm warm. And put that
phone away.
Noah, unable to do anything, looks to the stands, then heads to
the bench to warm his arm.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - LATER
The scoreboard in the outfield reveals that this is the final
inning. Noah’s team is winning seven to nothing. There’s one
out.
EXT. BATTER’S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The next batter steps up to the plate. He is a monster for a
high school kid. He stares down Noah. Noah looks back at him
and smiles.
EXT. PITCHER’S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
NOAH
(to himself)
What are they feeding these guys?
Noah fixes his hat and wipes the sweat off of his forehead. He
gets set, takes a deep breath, and throws a hanging fastball
right down the middle.
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The batter makes contact and hits a hard ground ball to third.
The third baseman knocks it down, but bobbles it a bit. Once he
gets control, he fires a cannon to first base.
EXT. FIRST BASELINE - CONTINUOUS
The batter flies down the first baseline. The first baseman
stretches and reaches out to grab the throw, but the runner
beats the throw to the bag.
FIELD UMPIRE
Safe!
The first baseman throws the ball back to Noah.
20.
EXT. PITCHER’S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah takes a deep breath and eyeballs the runner on first. He
is taking a sizable lead off of the bag.
EXT. BATTER’S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The next batter steps into the batter’s box and gets set,
waiting for his pitch.
EXT. PITCHER’S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah leans forward, with his hand behind his back, getting the
four seam grip on the ball. He stands upright, and looks as if
he is about to wind up and pitch.
CATCHER
He’s going!
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah steps off the mound and makes a fast throw to first base,
attempting to pick off the runner. The first baseman catches
the ball, and the runner goes to second. First base throws the
ball to second, catching the runner in a pickle. The runner
attempts to head back to first. Noah runs to cover first.
Second base throws the ball to Noah and Noah tags the runner,
making the out.
FIELD UMPIRE
He’s out!
Noah heads back to the pitcher’s mound.
Genres:
["Sports","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
Tragedy at Home
EXT. PITCHER’S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah brushes the dirt with his foot, trying to stall for some
time to catch his breath from the last play.
EXT. BATTER’S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The third batter takes a warmup swing and steps into the box.
Noah throws his first pitch and the batter hits a one hop right
back to Noah. He easily makes the play and fires the ball to
first base, throwing the runner out and ending the game.
The entire team runs off of the bench in celebration. Noah
skips the usual celebration and heads straight for the dugout.
21.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah grabs his bag and slings it over his shoulder. He walks
out of the dugout.
COACH MOORE
Where are you going so fast?
NOAH
I have to get home. Sorry.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Anthony is watching Noah outside of the dugout. He observes
Noah and Coach Moore in a slightly animated conversation. He
watches as Noah leaves the field, hops on his bicycle and
peddles off.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The Coach throws his hands in the air. BARRON, the bench
warmer, walks over to Coach Moore.
BARRON
Where’d he go?
COACH MOORE
He’s worried about his Mom.
EXT. ROCKFORD HOUSE’S - DAY
Noah arrives at his house. His Dad’s Toyota pickup truck is in
the driveway. Noah pulls his bicycle onto the lawn and jumps
off the bike. He stares at the truck for a moment. ALL OF A
SUDDEN...
He hears his mother screaming and arguing from inside the
house. He drops his bag and bolts inside.
INT. ROCKFORD'S HOUSE - DAY
Noah rushes through the house into the kitchen. Cain has a gun
pointed at Rita. Tears stream down her face.
RITA
...Noah, get out of here...
Cain suddenly aims the gun at Noah. Noah instinctively charges
Cain. All of a sudden..POP! Noah tackles Cain to the ground.
Cain slams his head on the floor, hard.
22.
Years of rage are absolutely unleashed as Noah repeatedly
punches his father into submission until there is no life left
in him.
Noah stops hitting Cain, and suddenly realizes he’s in pain. He
sits back and looks at his upper left arm, bleeding. He sits
down, dazed from the gunshot.
RITA (O.S.)
Noah...
Noah turns to see his Mom, with her hands on her stomach, blood
soaking through where she has been shot.
NOAH
(strangely calm)
Mom?
Rita slides to the ground.
Noah, in shock, crawls on the floor to his mother and tries to
cradle her in his arms. Blood soaks onto his white baseball
uniform.
NOAH
Hang on Mom. I’m sorry I wasn’t
here. I’m so sorry. You’re gonna
be ok. You’re gonna be ok.
Cain is on the ground, lifeless. The gun is still in his hand.
RITA
I love you.
She closes her eyes.
Noah looks at his Dad, lifeless, then looks away and shuts his
eyes tight. He holds onto his mother, laying in the carnage as
he loses consciousness.
Police and ambulance sirens wail in the background.
INT. LAW OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM (CHARLESTON) - DAY
Attorney LAURA WOOD, twenty eight years old, sits at the
conference table with her client, JENNIFER, across from BRAD,
another attorney and his client STEVE. Jennifer and Steve
viciously argue with each other.
STEVE
I’ve already agreed to the Range
Rover. That’s more than generous.
23.
JENNIFER
The Porsche either gets sold and
we split it, or I get it outright.
There’s no way I want to see your
whore girlfriend driving my car
all over Mount Pleasant!
SALLY, the receptionist, walks into the conference room while
the arguing is going on. She walks up to Laura and whispers in
her ear.
LAURA
Why don’t we break for lunch and
pick this up in an hour?
BRAD
Sounds good to me.
INT. LAURA'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Laura picks up the phone from her desk. She dials a number.
LAURA
Hi. This is Laura Wood. I have a
message from Melodie Hartman
regarding my nephew, Noah
Rockford...Thank you... Hi...yes,
this is Laura Wood...
I’m Noah’s Aunt...yes, Rita is my
sister... yes...wait...what are
you saying??... Oh my God.
INT. MERCEY HOSPITAL (TEXAS) - DAY
Laura is at the visitor’s front desk. The hospital volunteer
hands her a visitors pass.
VOLUNTEER
Take the elevator on the left to
the third floor.
LAURA
Thanks.
Laura walks down the hallway to the elevators. She pushes the
button and steps inside.
INT. 4TH FLOOR MERCY HOSPITAL - DAY
Laura exits the elevator. She walks down the hallway to Noah’s
room.
24.
INT. NOAHS’S HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY
Noah lies in the bed, sedated, with his upper left arm
bandaged. Laura walks up to the bed and gently strokes his
hair.
LAURA
Noah.
Noah sleepily wakes up.
NOAH
Mom?
LAURA
It’s Aunt Laura. I got here as
fast as I could.
Noah opens his eyes and looks at her. She is his Mom’s half-
sister.
NOAH
(confused)
Aunt Laura? What’s gonna happen?
Noah gets very agitated.
LAURA
I don’t know, but we will figure
it out. I promise.
The NURSE enters the room and checks Noah’s vital signs. She
looks at the hospital wristband he is wearing.
NURSE
Can you tell me your name and date
of birth?
NOAH
Noah Rockford. June ninth, two
thousand four.
NURSE
I’m just giving you some medicine
to help you relax.
The nurse injects the medication into the IV line. Noah almost
instantly settles down. Laura looks on, not knowing what to do
next. DOCTOR OLDFORD enters the hospital room.
DOCTOR OLDFORD
Are you Noah’s Aunt?
25.
LAURA
Yes, I’m Laura Wood. I got here as
fast as I could.
DOCTOR OLDFORD
Noah’s very lucky. He sustained a
gunshot wound to his upper tricep.
Laura stands next to Noah’s hospital bed, looking exhausted and
afraid for Noah.
DOCTOR OLDFORD (V.O.)
The bullet essentially grazed his
arm and nicked his brachial
artery. We performed a brachial
patch repair and we were able to
fully repair the damaged muscle.
He should make a full physical
recovery in about 8 weeks.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Laura Accepts Guardianship of Noah
EXT. HOSPITAL HALLWAY - LATER
Laura walks down the hospital hallway towards the waiting
elevator and steps inside. The doors close behind her.
DOCTOR OLDFORD (V.O.)
But Noah will also need
counseling, therapy, and possibly
medication to deal with the trauma
he just experienced.
INT. JUVENILE JUSTICE OFFICE - LATER
Elevator doors open to reveal Laura, weary, exiting the
elevators.
DOCTOR OLDFORD (V.O.)
He has a long road ahead of him.
Laura walks down a long hallway and steps into an office.
LAURA (V.O.)
My sister and I weren’t close.
When our Dad remarried my Mom, I
only saw Rita on a few holidays
and the random weekend.
INT. JUVENILE JUSTICE OFFICE - DAY
MELODY HARTMAN, in her 50s is sitting at her desk, taking
notes.
26.
LAURA (CONT’D)
She was twelve years older than
me, so we hardly knew each other.
I’m actually closer in age to Noah
than I was to her. What exactly
happened?
MELODY
The circumstances surrounding the
death of Cain Rockford have been
ruled an open and shut case of
self-defense. The DA is refusing
to press charges.
LAURA
Was there ever a question about it
not being self-defense?
MELODY
No. There was a long and well-
documented history of spousal
abuse at the home. If Noah didn’t
stop him, he most likely would
have been a victim as well.
Melody hands Laura a file. Laura opens the file and begins
thumbing through police reports detailing the history.
LAURA
So what happens next?
MELODY
His only living grandparent has
advanced dementia and is in
assisted living, so that makes you
the only relative that could be
his legal guardian. And since Noah
is only sixteen...
LAURA
...he’ll be seventeen next month.
MELODY
He’s still a minor. If you decide
that you can’t or don’t want the
responsibility of taking Noah, we
can make other arrangements for
him.
LAURA
Like what? He can stay with a
friend or something?
27.
MELODY
No. Foster care. We would place
him in the system until he turns
eighteen.
Laura slumps in her chair, feeling the weight of the situation.
LAURA
No, no...I can’t do that to him.
He can come back to Charleston
with me.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
Grieving and Goodbyes
EXT. CEMETERY - DAY
Rain lightly falls on the funeral congregation as they all
huddle under their umbrellas. A priest blesses the casket as it
is lowered into the ground.
PRIEST
Give her, O. Lord, your peace and
let your eternal light shine upon
her. Amen.
The funeral congregation, consisting of Rita’s friends and
Noah’s teammates, places their roses on the coffin in the
ground. Laura stands next to Noah, a stranger, as both try to
come to terms with their new reality.
Noah approaches the coffin, his left arm in a sling. He shakes
his head in disbelief, no tears, and tosses the rose in. Laura
stands next to Noah, tears streaming down her face.
NOAH
Bye Mom.
EXT. ROCKFORD’S HOUSE - DAY
A moving van is parked in front of the house. Movers load up
the last of Noah’s things into the van. Andrew and a few of
Noah’s teammates are there to say their goodbyes.
ANDREW
Bro, I guess this is goodbye for
now.
NOAH
Yea, I guess. I’m not gonna be
here to save your ass anymore, so
you better step up.
ANDREW
I will.
28.
Andrew chokes up and looks down at the ground, trying to
conceal his emotions. He shuffles his feet and gives Noah an
awkward hug.
ANDREW (CONT’D)
We’re gonna miss you.
Noah lets go of Andrew.
NOAH
See ya.
Noah gets in the passenger seat, Laura is driving. They pull
away as a realtor places a “For Sale” sign in the ground in
front of the house.
EXT. A COUNTRY ROAD - DAY
A van drives through the highways and low country on its way
from Texas to South Carolina.
INT. VAN - CONTINUOUS
Laura tries to make small talk with Noah.
LAURA
I currently live in a one-bedroom
condo, but a friend of mine has a
nice furnished house close to the
school that he said we could rent
as long as we needed to. I think
you’ll like it. They have one of
the best baseball programs in
South Carolina.
NOAH
I’m not playing baseball anymore.
Laura looks over at Noah. He is staring out the window and
looks more angry than sad.
LAURA
Okay, well, the school is good.
EXT. BUCC-EE’S REST STOP, MISSISSIPPI - DAY
Laura and Noah pull into a large truck stop to fuel up.
29.
EXT. GAS PUMPS - CONTINUOUS
Laura is pumping gas and on her cell phone. Noah heads back
from the bathroom with some snacks and a big bag of beef jerky.
LAURA
(into cell phone)
I’ll be back in tomorrow...yes...
got it, deposition is at the
Meeting Street office at 9 am.
I’ll be there. Did you file the
Landau brief?...Good. Make sure
Lamparter doesn’t screw it up,
she’s not very good with
details...
Noah walks back to the car but is distracted by something. He
looks to see a stray young dog wandering through the parking
lot, lost. Noah crouches down next to the moving van and takes
a piece of beef jerky out of his bag. He can hear Laura’s
conversation.
LAURA (O.S.)
He’s with me...I don’t know, I
haven’t even seen him cry. It’s
weird. I think he’s still in shock
about the whole thing.... I’ll
have him until he’s
eighteen....what was I supposed to
do, stick him in foster
care?...yea, well, he’s my
problem now.
NOAH (to dog)
Hey buddy. You hungry?
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Jeter's Adventure Begins at the Gas Station
EXT. GAS STATION - DAY
The dog comes over to Noah and gently takes the jerky out of
his hand.
NOAH
(looking around)
Is this your dog?
A worker emptying garbage cans shakes his head “no.” He feeds
the dog a few more pieces, and it wags its tail, grateful for
the food.
WORKER
I’ve seen him hanging around for a
few days. I think someone
abandoned him.
30.
LAURA (O.S.)
Noah, let’s go!
Laura puts the gas pump away and gets in the driver’s seat.
INT. VAN - CONTINUOUS
Noah hops in the passenger seat. The dog hops in and positions
itself between Laura and Noah. It lays down and puts its head
on Noah’s lap. The dog looks up at Laura with big, wet, brown
eyes.
LAURA
What’s this?
NOAH
This is Jeter.
LAURA
Jeter.
NOAH
Yeah, Jeter.
Noah rubs Jeter’s head.
NOAH (CONT’D)
I guess he’s my problem now.
Noah looks directly at Laura as he pets the dog. Laura nods her
head, realizing that her conversation was overheard and the dog
isn’t going anywhere.
LAURA
OK.
Laura starts the van, and they drive out of the gas station.
INT. VAN ON HIGHWAY - LATER
Laura and Noah continue on to South Carolina. Jeter is sound
asleep on Noah’s lap.
NOAH
So how do you like being a lawyer?
LAURA
A lot of hours. I do a lot of
divorce cases. Not exactly the
kind of law I was looking to
pursue; it just sort of happened.
It’s kind of depressing.
31.
NOAH
I know.
LAURA
Your Mom and I really weren’t very
close. We’ve talked a few times
over the years, but our lives were
completely different. Law school
was tough, and I was working two
jobs to pay for it all. Not much
time for anything else.
NOAH
Yeah, well, my Mom was working a
lot, too. She did everything for
me.
Noah stares out the window. There is an awkward silence.
Suddenly, Laura starts to scowl.
LAURA
Wow, how much beef jerky did you
feed him??
NOAH
Oh, That’s bad...open your
window...
Laura opens her window. Jeter sleeps soundly as they react to
smell of the dog farting.
LAURA
(laughing)
...Damn, that’s rank!
NOAH
Should we stop? That’s not normal.
LAURA
First thing when we get to
Charleston..he’s going to the vet!
Noah laughs and reacts to the stinky fart as they continue
driving.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Road Trip"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Grief and Connection: A Moment at the Crossroads
INT. COACH MILLER’S HOUSE - DAY
COACH JACKSON MILLER, late 30’s and coach of the St. Michael’s
Crusaders baseball team, stands at the stove attempting to make
scrambled eggs. KOLE MILLER, 14 years old, sits at the table.
The house is cluttered. There definitely is not a woman
present. Kole pokes at the food in front of him.
32.
KOLE
They’re burnt. Even the butter is
burnt. Tastes like plastic.
COACH MILLER
Quit complaining and eat.
Kole attempts to eat. Sadness takes over the room.
KOLE
I miss Mom.
COACH MILLER
I know. Me too.
Jackson looks at Kole. He picks up the plate and tosses it in
the sink.
COACH MILLER
Waffle House?
KOLE
Oh yeah!
They immediately get up and head for the door.
EXT. COACH MILLER’S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Kole watches as a moving van pulls into the driveway next door.
He grabs his baseball bag off of the porch and slings it over
his shoulder. Laura, Noah, and Jeter hop out of the van. Coach
Miller steps onto the porch with Kole.
COACH MILLER
Hi. Moving in?
LAURA
Yes, sir. I’m Laura. This is Noah
and Jeter.
Jeter dutifully sits next to Noah, like he’s been with him his
whole life.
NOAH
Hi.
Coach Miller takes note of Noah’s size.
COACH MILLER
Nice to meet you. I’m Jackson
Miller, and this is my son, Kole.
Are you still in high school?
33.
NOAH
Yes, sir.
COACH MILLER
Going to St. Michael’s, I hope?
LAURA
Yes. All set for the fall.
KOLE
Too bad you’ll have to cut your
hair. What happened to your arm?
There is an awkward silence. Noah doesn’t answer. Noah turns
and walks towards the house. Jeter follows.
NOAH
(walking away)
Nice meeting you.
He opens the door and walks inside. Laura is a little
embarrassed and tries to explain.
LAURA
He’s had a rough go of it these
past few weeks. He just lost both
of his parents.
Jackson puts his arm around his son and pulls him close. Kole
looks down, hiding his sadness. Laura seems to read between the
lines and senses that they have been through something life-
changing as well.
LAURA
Nice meeting you both.
COACH MILLER
Same.
Laura walks inside.
COACH MILLER (CONT’D)
(to Kole)
Let’s hit that Waffle House.
Kole smiles at his Dad.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Caring for Noah
INT. LAURA'S HOUSE - DAY
Laura unloads dishes in the kitchen. She grabs a glass and
fills it with water from the sink and hands the glass to Noah.
Noah’s hand trembles as he takes one of his pills.
34.
LAURA
School doesn’t start for two
weeks. You don’t have to go if
you’re not ready.
Laura keeps a close eye on Noah.
LAURA (CONT’D)
I have a deposition I need to
prepare for. You ok?
NOAH
I have to cut my hair?
Jeter is sitting right next to Noah.
LAURA
Yes. Catholic school rules. Don’t
forget Jeter has a vet appointment
at eleven. He’s right on main
street.
NOAH
I won’t forget. We’ll go for a
nice walk.
Noah rubs Jeter’s head and Jeter gives Noah big kisses.
Noah heads for the door. Laura stops Noah by gently touching
his shoulder.
LAURA
Noah, I’m sorry for what I said
before..at the gas station. You’re
not a problem. This is going to be
an adjustment for all of us. I’m
glad you’re here and I just want
to make sure you have everything
you need...if there’s anything I
can do..
NOAH
Got it.
(to Jeter)
Let’s go.
EXT. LAURA'S HOUSE - DAY
Noah and Jeter step out onto the front porch. Noah stops and
makes a fist with his left hand and winces in pain.
Jeter watches and suddenly leaps off the porch and runs out
onto the grass. He finds a baseball and picks it up. Jeter
stops and waits for Noah.
35.
Noah walks over to Jeter and looks down at him.
They both continue walking.
EXT. VETS OFFICE - LATER
Noah and Jeter approach the front door. Jeter still has the
ball in his mouth.
BLAKE HOPKINS, 16 years old and a stunner, is behind the
counter.
BLAKE
Hi. Who do we have here?
NOAH
This is Jeter.
Blake types into a computer. Jeter puts his paws up on the
counter to get a better look at Blake.
BLAKE
New Patient. He’s cute!
Blake looks a Noah when she says this, flirting.
NOAH
I found him at a gas station in
Mississippi. He hasn’t left my
side since.
BLAKE
Wow. You just move here?
NOAH
Yea, from Texas.
BLAKE
What happened to your arm?
NOAH
Oh this?
(jokingly)
Gunshot.
BLAKE
Funny, well, welcome to
Charleston. Have a seat. My Dad
will be right with you.
Noah and Jeter sit.
36.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
A Day of Adjustments
INT. EXAM ROOM - DAY
It’s the end of the exam. The doctor brings Jeter back into the
exam room.
VET
You’re all set. Here’s Jeter’s
updated rabies tag. He’s already
been fixed so you don’t have to
worry about that. And I checked if
he was chipped, which he isn’t.
Blood work looks good, too. You’ve
got yourself a great pup.
Jeter runs to Noah, tail wagging.
NOAH
Thanks.
VET
Blake will check you out.
Noah takes Jeter.
NOAH
Come on Jete.
Jeter grabs the baseball from the floor.
INT. OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Blake finishes the transaction. She hands him the receipt.
NOAH
Thanks.
Noah takes the receipt and heads to the exit.
BLAKE
You going to St. Michael’s?
NOAH
So I’m told.
BLAKE
Me too! See you at school. Take
care of that gunshot injury!
Noah smiles at Blake and exits.
37.
INT. ROCKFORD HOUSE - DAY (DREAM SEQUENCE)
Noah stands on the pitcher’s mound. Something catches his eye.
Rita stands in the batter’s box. She holds her hands over her
stomach as the blood seeps through her fingertips.
RITA
...Noah...help me...
END DREAM SEQUENCE
INT. NOAH'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Noah jolts straight up, drenched in sweat, breathing heavily.
His hair has already been cut for school. It’s 4 am. Jeter sits
up and curiously looks at him. Noah swings his legs out of the
bed and he sits for a moment, gathering his thoughts. He picks
up his phone and checks his notifications.
INSERT - IPHONE SCREEN
“Andrew Hoover is proud to announce his commitment to play
baseball at Florida Southern College” is emblazoned on the
twitter feed.
BACK TO SCENE
Noah shakes his head and puts down the phone. He gets out of
bed.
EXT. LAURA'S HOUSE - LATER
Noah steps onto the porch. He’s wearing shorts, a t-shirt, and
sneakers. He breathes in the moist Charleston air, steps off
of the porch, and starts running.
EXT. ST MICHAEL'S SCHOOL - LATER
Noah runs up to the school and stops. He looks at the baseball
field off in the distance. He pulls the sling up and over his
head, removing the contraption from his arm. He slowly
straightens out his arm and tosses the sling in the garbage
can.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - NIGHT
Noah and Jeter stand on the edge of the third base line. Jeter
dashes onto the field, casting a fleeting glance back at Noah.
38.
Noah follows, his steps measured as he walks onto the pitcher’s
mound.
Noah takes a deep breath in through his nose, taking in the
distinct smells of the ball field. Noah picks up a rogue
baseball from the pitchers mound. He looks at the ball in his
hand, then angrily hurls the ball into the backstop of the
batters box. He cries out in pain from his healing arm.
Thunder rolls off in the distance and heat lightning brightens
the early morning sky. Jeter walks up to Noah, trembling, and
nudges his leg. Noah leans down to comfort the dog.
NOAH
You afraid of thunder? Let’s get
you home.
Noah and Jeter jog away from the field. Off in the distance,
FATHER ED, late fifties, and the pastor at St. Michael’s,
curiously watches Noah and Jeter as they jog away.
INT. LAURA'S BEDROOM - LATER
Laura slaps at the alarm going off on her cell phone. She puts
her head back down on the pillow for five more minutes, but
hears rustling in the next room and is jolted back to the
reality of a teenage boy in her kitchen.
She sits up, takes a deep breath, and swings her legs out of
the bed.
INT. KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Laura walks into the kitchen to make coffee. She is stunned to
see Noah sitting at the table, in a school uniform, dressed and
ready to go.
NOAH
I made coffee.
LAURA
I see that. I like the uniform.
Noah sits silently, awkward. Laura goes into the cupboard and
gets Noah’s medication.
LAURA (CONT’D)
Here you go.
Noah puts the pill in his mouth and washes it down with the
coffee.
39.
LAURA
Where’s your sling?
NOAH
I’m tired of people asking about
it. My arm’s fine, just a little
sore. I’ll wait outside for you.
Noah gets up from the table grabs his backpack and walks
outside. Jeter follows.
Laura is left standing alone in the kitchen.
LAURA
...and good morning.
EXT. LAURA'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Jeter runs over and grabs the baseball from the front porch. He
brings it back to Noah and drops it at his feet.
Noah reaches down and picks up the ball.
KOLE (O.S)
Hey! Throw it here!
Noah turns to see Kole on his front stoop. Kole has his mitt
on.
KOLE (CONT’D)
Come on! Let’s see what you got.
Noah, reluctant, lightly tosses the ball to Kole.
KOLE
Wow. A lefty, like me. You a
pitcher?
NOAH
I was. But I hurt my arm. I just
need to rest it for a few weeks.
KOLE
My Dad’s the baseball coach at
Saint Michaels, but I’m still not
getting any playing time. I can
throw strikes but my velocity
isn’t there.
NOAH
How old are you?
KOLE
Just turned 15. I’m a freshman.
40.
NOAH
You’ve got time, you just gotta
get a little bigger.
KOLE
That’s what everyone says. Maybe
you could give me some pointers?
Noah favors his left arm as Laura hurriedly exits the house.
Clad in a business suit with a vintage Coach satchel slung over
her shoulder, she rushes past Noah to the car.
LAURA
Let’s go.
(to Kole)
You need a ride?
KOLE
I’m good. My Dad takes me.
Just then, Coach Miller walks out of the house.
COACH MILLER
Morning!
Laura and Noah ad-lib their good mornings.
NOAH
(to Jeter)
Stay.
Jeter reluctantly sits and lets out a little sigh.
NOAH (CONT’D)
(to Kole)
See you at school. If you want to
get bigger, eat everything. That’s
my advice.
KOLE
I’ll do that. Thanks!
Noah gets in the passenger seat and Laura starts backing out of
the driveway
KOLE (CONT’D)
(to his dad) Do we have time for
waffle house?
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Clash in the Principal's Office
INT. PRINCIPAL WATTS OFFICE - DAY
Laura and Noah sit at the desk. SCHOOL PRINCIPAL WATTS looks
through Noah’s file.
41.
WATTS
Decent grades. A lot of colleges
interested in you playing baseball
for them. Wow..a lot of offers.
Have you considered any of these?
NOAH
No. I’m not playing right now.
Laura’s cell phone keeps buzzing notifications. Each time she
briefly glances at her phone.
WATTS
How are you adjusting to your new
living situation?
NOAH
I’m good.
(to Laura)
You should go. I’ll be fine.
LAURA
I’m sorry...
(to Watts)
I’m late.
Watts hands Noah a schedule and a student ID lanyard. Noah puts
it on.
WATTS
We’re just about finished. Just
consider playing baseball.
Noah angrily slams his hand on the desk. He winces from the
pain in his arm.
NOAH
I’ll play when I’m ready. Are you
deaf?
LAURA
Noah!
WATTS
Watch your tone young man.
Noah stands.
NOAH
My parents are dead and all you
people care about is me playing
baseball! I’m going to class.
Noah walks out of the office, not even waiting for an answer.
Laura takes in what Noah is saying.
42.
LAURA
Hmm. He does have a point. Thank
you.
Laura goes after Noah.
EXT. OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Laura hurriedly walks after Noah.
LAURA
Noah, wait...Noah! Are you ok?
NOAH
I just want to get through the
day. Get going. You’re late
because of me.
LAURA
Hey... I just want you to know,
you’re right. Everyone needs to
back off with the baseball thing,
including me. I’m sorry.
NOAH
Go to work.
Laura awkwardly goes for a hug and Noah takes a defensive step
back. She pats him on the shoulder instead.
NOAH
I’m sorry.
LAURA
It’s alright. Bye.
Noah watches her go.
EXT. SCHOOL COURTYARD - LATER
Students eat lunch in the courtyard. Noah sits alone, eats and
observes everyone. Across the courtyard, he sees Blake. She is
arguing with a boy. From a distance, it looks pretty serious.
BRODY HOPKINS is arguing with his twin sister, Blake.
BLAKE
...NO!
BRODY
Blake, give me the keys! You had
the car yesterday...
43.
BLAKE
Mom said I get the car today
because you keep forgetting to
flush the toilet!
BRODY
It wasn’t me!
Brody grabs Blake and pins her arms to her body.
BLAKE
(screaming)
Stop! Let go of me!
Noah stands and bolts after Blake. Brody sees him coming and
lets go of Blake.
BRODY
What’s up?
Before Brody can react, Noah decks him. Blake screams. Brody
goes down like a sack of potatoes. Noah reacts slightly from
the pain in his injured arm.
BLAKE
Oh my god! What’s wrong with you!!
Blake runs to her brother. He’s trying to recover from being
punched in the face.
NOAH
He was hurting you!
BLAKE
He’s my brother!!
(She shoves Noah)
We fight like this all the time!
Noah is mortified. Father Ed sees the commotion and makes a
bee-line to Noah.
NOAH
Oh shit. I’m sorry. I thought he
was hurting you...I’m sorry man.
Father Ed motions to Noah.
FATHER ED
You. Let’s go. And who are you?
Father Ed pulls Noah’s lanyard off of him to check his ID.
NOAH
Noah Rockford. My first day.
44.
FATHER ED
Of course it is.
Father Ed and Noah walking away. Blake helps Brody get up.
BRODY (to Blake)
Can I have the keys?
Blake smacks her brother in the shoulder and gives him the
keys. Blake watches Noah walk away. She’s intrigued and
slightly smiles.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Confrontation and Apology
INT. FATHER ED’S OFFICE - DAY
Father Ed and Noah walk into his office. It looks like a cross
between an old baseball museum and an ancient library. Books
and papers are stacked everywhere, along with plenty of
baseball memorabilia.
NOAH
Sir, I thought she was being
attacked. I didn’t know that was
her brother.
Father Ed sits at his desk.
FATHER ED
I saw what happened. I understand.
But you just can’t go around
punching people in the face.
NOAH
I know. I’m sorry. Am I getting
suspended?
FATHER ED
Take a seat.
Noah sits as Father Ed looks at the ID and starts typing on his
computer. Noah curiously scans the room as deafening silence
takes over. Father Ed reads his file. It feels like an
eternity.
FATHER ED
You’re not suspended, but I’m
giving you early detention. Report
to the chapel, 5:30 am tomorrow
morning. Wear work clothes. You’ll
have time to go home and change
for school afterwards.
Father Ed hands back the lanyard.
45.
NOAH
Yes, sir.
Noah leaves the office.
INT. LAURA'S HOUSE - MORNING
Noah sits up with a jolt, drenched in sweat, breathing heavily
from a terrible dream. It’s 4 am. Noah swings his legs out of
the bed. Jeter sits up next to Noah. He jumps off the bed and
waits patiently.
EXT. LAURA'S HOUSE - LATER
Noah steps onto the porch. Jeter walks out with him.
NOAH
(to Jeter)
Stay.
Noah hops on his bicycle and peddles off. Jeter grabs his ball
and follows a short distance behind.
EXT. ST. MICHAEL’S SCHOOL - LATER
Noah rides past the sports fields. He sees Blake, goalie
lacrosse stick in hand, throwing and catching a lacrosse ball
against a brick wall. He rides his bicycle up to her.
NOAH
You’re out here early.
Blake slightly turns to see Noah, but doesn’t stop throwing and
catching.
BLAKE
I’m getting ready for Under Armour
South tryouts. They’re next
weekend at IMG in Florida and I
need to make the team if I want to
have any chance of playing at
Clemson.
NOAH
They have that for baseball, too.
BLAKE
You play? What are you doing here?
46.
NOAH
I have early detention for decking
your brother.
Blake misses a rebound and the ball bounces back to Noah. He
makes a barehanded catch and holds onto the ball. Blake focuses
all of her attention on Noah.
BLAKE
I’m not some damsel in distress. I
can take care of myself.
Blake holds the goalie stick up, signaling for Noah to throw
the ball back to her.
NOAH
I’m sorry..I overreacted. Is your
brother ok?
BLAKE
He’s fine. He has a hard head. It
was kind of cool, though. You
defending me like that.
Noah still holding onto the ball.
BLAKE (CONT’D)
Am I gonna have to take that ball
back?
Blake smiles at Noah, she’s not afraid to mess with him. Noah
finally throws the ball back to her.
NOAH
I gotta go. Detention awaits.
Noah turns to leave.
BLAKE
There’s a dance in a few weeks.
Are you going?
NOAH
No. I don’t have a girlfriend so..
BLAKE
Well I don’t have a boyfriend. So
I’ll see you there.
Blake smiles at Noah and goes back to her wall ball drill.
47.
Genres:
["Drama","Coming-of-age","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Cleaning and Punishment
INT. CHAPEL - MORNING
Noah enters the chapel. The sun is just rising and the space is
bathed in light. It is beautiful as Noah takes it all in.
FATHER ED (O.S.)
Back here.
Noah turns and sees Father Ed. He waves for him to follow. They
walk down a hallway to a storage closet. Father Ed opens the
door.
FATHER ED
Grab the mop and bucket. Follow
me.
Noah grabs the yellow bucket and mop. He quickly wheels it
along and follows Father Ed. He leads Noah to the men’s room.
FATHER ED
Clean the bathroom, mop the
floors. When you’re finished, do
the ladies room. I’ll be in my
office. Come see me when you’re
done.
Father Ed leaves Noah standing alone in the hallway. Noah is
not happy.
INT. MEN'S ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Noah scans the restroom. Paper towels are strewn about, garbage
cans are full. He’s not sure where to begin. He starts
gathering the garbage together and throws everything in the
can.
Noah fills the mop bucket with hot water from a faucet in the
mens room.
Noah mops the floors. He awkwardly lifts the mop and slaps it
back in the bucket, then slaps it back on the floor.
Noah scrubs a toilet with a long brush. He uses his foot to
flush and his face looks grossed out.
Noah walks into the ladies room. The door slams behind him but
he quickly exits and looks like he is going to vomit. He pauses
for a moment, and then, determined, goes back in to get the job
done.
48.
EXT. FATHER ED'S OFFICE - LATER
There is a knock on the door.
FATHER ED
Come in.
Noah walks in. Father Ed doesn’t look up. He’s on the phone.
FATHER ED
(into phone)
Just let him know Father Ed From
St. Michael’s parish called.
Thanks.
Father Ed hangs up.
NOAH
I’m finished. I rinsed the bucket
and mop and put it back in the
closet.
FATHER ED
Good. See you tomorrow. Same time.
Noah makes an annoyed face.
FATHER ED (CONT’D)
(looking up)
I see you played baseball at your
last school. You plan on playing
at Saint Michaels?
NOAH
I hurt my arm. I need to shut it
down for a few weeks.
FATHER ED
How long has it been?
NOAH
10 weeks, 2 days.
Noah’s eyes well up, and he catches himself thinking about the
time that has passed since his parent’s death. Father Ed sees
this, removes his reading glasses and studies Noah.
FATHER ED
I want you playing baseball. Let’s
get you at least working out with
the team, being mindful of your
arm, of course. Close the door on
your way out.
49.
NOAH
(defiantly)
No way. I’m not playing.
FATHER ED
I’m not asking. Consider it a part
of your punishment.
Noah’s face sinks. He just nods and walks out.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
Noah's Calling
EXT. CHAPEL - MOMENTS LATER
Noah walks out of the chapel, hops on his bicycle and starts
to peddle off when he notices Jeter sitting under a nearby oak
tree, waiting for him.
NOAH
Jeter! What are you doing here?
Jeter picks up his ball and happily runs over. Noah pets his
head.
NOAH
Come on..let’s go.
Noah peddles home with Jeter following.
INT. ST MICHAEL'S CLASSROOM - DAY
Noah sits in the back of his science class. Father Ed walks in
and says something to the teacher, then leaves.
TEACHER
Noah.
Noah is startled and sits at attention.
TEACHER (CONT’D)
When you’re finished with class
report to Father Ed’s office.
NOAH
Yes, ma’am.
INT. FATHER ED'S OFFICE - DAY
A knock at the door. Noah pushes the door open.
NOAH
You wanted to see me?
50.
FATHER ED
Come in. Sit.
Noah sits.
FATHER ED
So, besides detention how are
things going your first week of
school?
NOAH
Well, I’m definitely getting an
education on how to be a janitor.
Can I ask you....What’s with all
the baseball stuff?
FATHER ED
Before I became a priest, I played
right field for the New York Mets.
Father Ed hands him a framed baseball card.
INSERT - FRAMED BASEBALL CARD
A young Father Ed is pictured in a Mets Uniform, bat slung over
his shoulder.
BACK TO SCENE
Noah looks at the framed card, dumbfounded.
NOAH
How do you go from the MLB to
being a priest? What about...
Noah stops himself before he asks the question, not sure if
it’s appropriate.
FATHER ED
...girls? It's a long story, but
everybody has a calling. Mine was
the church. Don’t get me wrong. I
loved playing baseball and I
definitely had my share of fun
with the ladies. Those were some
of the best years of my life.
But in the end, I was 26 years old
and 190 pounds of pure hostility.
I was losing my faith, and losing
myself.
NOAH
How did you get your faith back?
51.
FATHER ED
Well, I retired from baseball in
1992 and decided to try my hand at
acting. Had a few minor rolls here
and there. Even played a minor
league baseball player in a movie.
But I kept hearing that voice in
my head asking “Eddie, what are
you doing with your life?” It was
a calling from God. It was another
ten years before I listened to
that voice and I entered the
seminary. The rest is history.
What’s your calling?
NOAH
I don’t have one.
FATHER ED
Come on. The little voice in your
head that talks to you. There must
be something.
NOAH
I don’t...I used to...but things
are so messed up.
Noah is visibly upset but holds it together.
FATHER ED
My door is always open if you need
to talk. Or you can just sit and
pray. Talking is not always the
answer.
NOAH
Thank-you Father.
Noah gets up to leave.
FATHER ED
Not so fast. I need you to do one
more thing for me. After school
tomorrow. Keep your PE uniform on
after gym class.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
A Challenge on the Baseball Field
EXT. ST MICHAEL'S SCHOOL - DAY
Father Ed and Noah head towards the sport’s fields. Jeter
leaves his spot under the oak tree and follows after them.
NOAH
Where are we going?
52.
FATHER ED
More maintenance.
Noah and Father Ed walk past all of the sport’s fields. They
walk past the tennis players on the courts. They walk past all
of the lacrosse players finishing up practice.
EXT. LACROSSE FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Blake stands on the sidelines. She takes off her helmet and
notices Noah walking with Father Ed towards the baseball field.
EXT. ST MICHAEL'S SCHOOL - CONTINUOUS
Noah looks over at Blake, then quickly looks down and keeps
walking.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The Crusader’s baseball team practices on the field. They
aren’t terrible but they aren’t great either. Players are
taking turns batting. The pitcher is throwing a mix of wild
pitches, passed balls and ones that are getting hit. Fielding
is not great with dropped pop flies, missed ground balls and
terrible plays at the bag. Noah stops to watch and Father Ed
takes notice. Coach Miller takes notice too.
FATHER ED
Hey, come on. You have work to do.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Father Ed walks into the dugout and opens a closet door at the
very end. The room is filled with trash, dirty baseball gear,
flies, etc.
FATHER ED (con’t)
Here you go.
NOAH
Here I go...what?
COACH MILLER
Hi Father.
FATHER ED
Clean it up. I want to be able to
eat off the floors when you’re
done. Hi Coach.
53.
Noah is upset. He steps out of the dugout and is on the 3rd
baseline. Jeter sits in the dugout, watching.
NOAH
More cleaning? Are you kidding
me? I thought I was working out
with the team, not this!
FATHER ED
No, not kidding. And when you’re
finished with this one, you can
clean the other dugout.
NOAH
This is bullshit!
COACH MILLER
It is for you.
NOAH
Look at them. They’re terrible.
They should clean up their own
shit!
The team, consisting of NICK (first base), JUSTIN (second
base), GAVIN (third base), ISAAC (short stop), CARTER (left
field), SAM (center field) BRODY (pitcher, right field) DREW
(pitcher, left field) PEDRO (catcher), KOLE (pitcher, bench
warmer) and BENNETT (utility player), stop playing and react to
Noah’s ranting. Brody Hopkins, still with a slight black eye,
steps forward and approaches Noah.
BRODY
I’d like to see you do better.
NOAH
(laughing)
Do better? Maybe if you took a
little bit of pride in the
condition of your dugout, it would
translate to the field.
BRODY
I don’t see you out here trying.
NOAH
I could strike out the top of your
lineup with my eyes closed.
Brody whips the baseball at Noah, who catches it barehanded.
BRODY
Prove it.
(MORE)
54.
BRODY (CONT’D)
You strike out the top of our
lineup and we’ll clean the
dugouts. But if you don’t, you’ll
clean the dugouts..and my jock
strap.
Noah looks at Father Ed, who shrugs with approval.
NOAH
I need a mitt. I’m a lefty.
Kole runs off of the field and hands Noah his mitt. He has a
huge smile on his face.
KOLE
Take mine. What about your arm?
Kole hands Noah his mitt.
NOAH
It’s fine. Let’s get this over
with.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Noah's Pitching Prowess and Emotional Turmoil
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah on the baseball mound. Father Ed and Coach Miller stand
behind the pitcher’s mound. Coach Miller has a pocket radar gun
and clocks Noah.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Drew Messina, the 3rd baseman and a monster, steps up to the
plate.
DREW
You can clean my jock strap, too.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The whole team is cracking up until Kole starts clapping his
hands for Noah. Jeter stands next to Kole and barks.
KOLE
Come on Noah! Strike him out!
The team ad-libs telling Kole to keep his mouth shut.
55.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah winds up and throws the first pitch, a filthy fastball.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Drew takes a huge swing and a miss!
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The team reacts wildly.
GAVIN
That’s a big Daddy hack!
Coach Miller and Father Ed are laughing.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Pedro, the catcher, shakes his glove hand in pain. He can’t
believe the velocity and movement.
PEDRO
You guys are in trouble! This
southpaw’s got mad skills. What’s
your name?
NOAH
Rockford. Just give me the ball.
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah.
EXT. PICHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah rearranges the dirt on the mound with his foot, He plants
his foot into the rubber, winds up and throws another screaming
fastball.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Drew takes a huge, ugly swing and misses. Pedro reacts to the
pain in his catching hand, but tries desperately to tone it
down.
PEDRO
Dude, he barely warmed up!
DREW
I bet all he has is a fastball.
56.
PEDRO
What more does he need?
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah holds the ball in his mitt, getting his grip. He takes a
deep breath, winds up and throws a filthy curve ball. Drew
swings so hard he practically falls over.
NOAH
Who’s next?
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Drew walks off of the field. He is shaking his head as Brody
walks up to the batter’s box.
SAM
Hit a dinger Brody!
JUSTIN
Let’s go slap some taters!
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Brody steps up to the plate. Noah stares him down.
PEDRO
Yo, try not to hit him.
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah winds up and throws a low inside corner strike. Brody
doesn’t swing.
PEDRO
Strike one.
BRODY
No way! That was low.
PEDRO
It was a strike.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The player chatter is loud and fun.
57.
BENNETT
Come on Brody! Swing at it!
ISAAC
Don’t get locked up bro, that was
a strike!
Other players chime in. All agree it was a strike.
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah.
INT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah carefully fixes the dirt on the mound with his sneakered
foot. He winds up and throws a nasty breaking ball. Brody
doesn’t swing, again.
KOLE
Go Noah!
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Isaac playfully grabs Kole.
ISAAC
Dude, we need a hit!
KOLE
There’s no way any of us are
hitting him.
The team ad libs to Kole to keep his mouth shut.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah winds up and throws another fastball. Brody swings and
misses by a mile.
Coach Miller shows the radar gun to Father Ed. It’s a 92 mph
fastball.
PEDRO
Strike three! Nice Rockpaw.
NOAH
It’s Rockford.
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah.
PEDRO
OK, Rockpaw.
58.
EXT. BALLFIELD - CONTINUOUS
NOAH
Father Ed, one more batter and I’m
out of detention, right?
FATHER ED
One more and you’re a free man.
(to Coach Miller)
and I’m calling the Mets.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Gavin Winkler, third baseman and best hitter on the team steps
into the batter’s box. Noah doesn’t care.
GAVIN
Let’s see what you got.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Players ad-lib cheering for Gavin.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Noah throws three pitches, three strikes swinging. He’s out.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The team reacts. Most look impressed.
KOLE
Holy cow.
NICK
I don’t want to clean. Dang it.
What’s his name?
PEDRO
Noah Rockpaw. That kid’s legit.
COACH MILLER
Practice is over. Start cleaning
the dugout boys!
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah stands alone on the mound. He looks at all of the other
players. They are reluctantly clapping for him.
59.
They can’t believe how good he is. Everything suddenly starts
moving in slow motion. The sounds and cheers are echoing in
Noah’s head. Noah turns and looks out at the empty field into
the stands.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Noah’s Mom, Rita, and his Dad, Cain, are cheering for him in
the stands.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah stares in disbelief. Noah steps off of the mound towards
his parents and snaps out of it. The stands are empty. Noah
collapses and falls to his knees. Jeter runs out to Noah.
BRODY
What’s he doing?
KOLE
Noah?
Father Ed and Coach Miller see Noah collapse and run out to
him.
FATHER ED
Son, you ok?
Noah is not ok. He’s having a complete breakdown, shaking as if
he is reliving the moment of his parent’s death.
NOAH
I saw my Mom and Dad...right there
in the stands. It was so real.
FATHER ED
Let’s get you out of here.
Father Ed reaches down to help Noah get up, but Noah reacts
violently, as if he is being attacked. He shakes him off
practically knocking Father Ed over.
COACH MILLER
Whoah, take it easy..
Noah paces recklessly, angry and defiant.
NOAH
I don’t need your help! Leave me
alone.
Noah walks off the field. The other players don’t know what to
make of it. Jeter dutifully follows.
60.
Blake walks up to the ball field, carrying her gear. She sees
the end of the dust up, not knowing what to think.
BLAKE
Noah...
Noah, still in his own world, ignores Blake and keeps going.
BLAKE
What happened? Noah?!
Noah snaps out of it and turns to Blake.
NOAH
Stay away from me.
Noah runs off of the field. The players look confused about
what just happened.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Noah's Struggle with Guilt
INT. ST MICHAEL'S SCHOOL - DAY
Noah sits in math class. He stares out the window while the
teacher goes over math problems on the white board.
DAYDREAM - INT. ROCKFORD HOUSE - DAY
Cain holds a gun, pointed at Rita. Noah leaps and tackles Cain,
the gun going off. Noah beats Cain in the head. Cain’s blood is
all over his knuckles.
TEACHER (O.S.)
Noah?
END DAYDREAM
INT. CLASSROOM - CONTINUOUS
Noah violently jolts back to reality. The kids in the class
laugh at him.
TEACHER (CONT’D)
You still with us?
NOAH
I have to go to the bathroom.
Noah abruptly gets up.
TEACHER
You’re not excused!
Noah ignores the teacher and walks out of the classroom.
61.
INT. SCHOOL BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Noah stands at the sink and splashes cold water on his face. He
looks down at his hands and slowly turns them over, revealing
his knuckles, covered in blood. Noah shuts his eyes tightly. He
opens his eyes again and looks at his hands. The blood is gone.
INT. CHAPEL - DAY
Noah walks into the chapel looking for Father Ed. He walks down
the hallway and finds him in his office.
INT. FATHER ED'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
There is a knock at the door. Father Ed looks up to see Noah
standing in the doorway.
NOAH
I’m sorry about yesterday...I know
you were only trying to help. I
don’t know why I reacted that way.
Father Ed gestures for Noah to sit.
FATHER ED
Come in.
Noah sits silent for a moment. He scans the surroundings,
taking in all of the baseball memorabilia and religious symbols
displayed throughout the office.
NOAH
You know how we talked about the
little voice in your head..your
calling? Well, mine is making me
crazy. I can’t sleep without
seeing and hearing the thud my
father’s head made when it hit the
tile floor. In English class,
we’re reading Macbeth. I’m Lady
Macbeth. I see his blood all over
my hands. I close my eyes and it’s
all I can see.
FATHER ED
I can’t even imagine what that
must be like for you.
NOAH
It was self defense at first, but
then it turned into pure rage. I
should have stopped hitting him.
(MORE)
62.
NOAH (CONT’D)
He was already out cold, but I
didn’t. I killed him. I’m just as
bad as him.
FATHER ED
No, you’re nothing like him. You
spent years in an impossible
situation but you survived despite
the trauma and abuse.
NOAH
I killed my father. There’s
nothing I can do to change that.
FATHER ED
Whoever sheds the blood of man, by
man shall his blood be shed, for
God made man in his own image.
Forgiveness is the answer. You
have to forgive yourself.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Noah's Past Revealed
INT. SCHOOL LOCKER ROOM - DAY
The baseball team is mulling around the locker room, changing
clothes, putting away equipment, etc. Kole sits on the bench,
eating a Snickers bar.
KOLE
...all I know is that both of his
parents are dead.
DREW
Holy shit.
Pedro gets out his laptop.
PEDRO
Let’s google him. I’m sure we can
find out something.
Pedro types on his laptop.
PEDRO (con’t)
Noah Rockpaw.
KOLE
It’s Rockford. He moved here from
Texas.
PEDRO
(typing)
Noah Rockford, Texas, baseball.
63.
He hits enter. A trove of info pops up. Brody reads over
Pedro’s shoulder.
BRODY
He was a top ten MLB high school
prospect in the country. What the
heck happened?
DREW
Click on news.
Pedro clicks news, and the first story to pop up is the video
from the reporter. The players gather around and watch.
REPORTER (O.S.)
What started as an amazing day for
the Argyle High School baseball
team ended in the double murder
today at the home of Argyle’s hero
pitcher, Noah Rockford. Jim Green
is live at the scene with the
latest on this tragedy.
Just then, Father Ed and Coach Miller walk in the locker room.
Pedro slams the computer shut.
COACH MILLER
I see ya’ll know about Noah’s
past.
BRODY
Someone should have told us.
COACH MILLER
Why? Would you have treated him
differently?
BRODY
Well, yeah. Probably.
FATHER ED
In this life, we all have our
crosses to bear. The only way Noah
can get through this is if he can
come to terms with what has
happened and learn to accept it
and forgive. Let’s pray for Noah
that he finds the strength that he
needs to heal.
BRODY
Let’s pray for this baseball team
that he does. We really could use
him!
64.
DREW
Seriously Brody?
Kole throws a pair of dirty socks at Brody.
BRODY
Oh come on! You know what I mean,
you’re all thinking it... even you
Father Ed. He’s unbelievable, and
God would want him to play
baseball. He would want him to
play.
FATHER ED
God’s not a Yankee fan or a Mets
fan. He won’t help us win baseball
games. He won’t make Noah pick up
a baseball and play again. But God
will help guide the way..for all
of us.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Noah's Revelation
INT. LAURA'S KITCHEN - DAY
Laura is at the kitchen table, computer open, papers
everywhere, attempting to work from home. Noah walks in from
school.
NOAH
Hey.
LAURA
Hey.
NOAH
I guess you’re working from home
now because of me?
LAURA
No, well, yes.
(smiling)
And since I’m the boss, I can do
whatever I want. I’d rather work
from home anyway so you’re doing
me a favor. Do you want to talk
about what happened the other day?
Father Ed called me at my office.
Noah walks over to the counter and grabs a glass of water.
NOAH
I pitched. Then I lost my shit. I
literally hallucinated my Mom and
Dad sitting in the stands.
(MORE)
65.
NOAH (CONT’D)
Watching me. It was as real as you
sitting right here. And then I was
an asshole to the people trying to
help me.
He sits. Laura listens.
NOAH (con't)
I stopped taking the pills.
LAURA
Ok. Why?
NOAH
They made me feel...numb. My whole
life I’ve been walking on
eggshells. My Dad was a powder
keg, ready to blow at any moment,
for any reason. If something was
awesome, he’d find a way to ruin
it. Even my Mom. She tried, you
know, to make it work. To protect
me. But she should have done a
better job. I know she was a
victim, but I hate that word. I’m
pissed off and tired of being the
victim. If I never pick up a
baseball again, my Dad wins. He
took my Mom, he’s not taking
baseball from me, too. What
happened on the ball field the
other day...pitching again felt
good. And playing baseball means
everything to me. It’s who I am.
It’s my calling.
There’s a knock at the door.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Noah's Redemption and Outreach
EXT. LAURA'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Laura and Noah walk to the door to reveal the entire baseball
team on the porch. Brody and Pedro are front and center. Noah
opens the door.
NOAH
Hey. What’s up?
66.
BRODY
OK, as team captain, I’m just
gonna speak for everyone and start
out by saying we are all just
really impressed by what you did
the other day. Really, I mean, I
wish I was as good as you. And we
are all sorry for what you’ve been
through. Pedro googled it, and
that must have been really tough.
Can’t imagine. The fact that
you’re standing here is really a
testament to you. Just saying.
PEDRO
We all want you to be a part of
this team. Not because all we care
about is winning...I mean, we want
to win like more than three games
in a season, but because you need
to be on a baseball field. You’re
like, a future legend.
BRODY
And if you need to cry and
breakdown after every inning,
that’s totally cool! We’ll give
you space to do that. As long as
you’re striking guys out. And we
already have a nickname for you.
Rockford the Southpaw. Rockpaw.
Get It?
NOAH
I got it. OK.
There is an awkward pause as the players react to Noah’s
answer.
BRODY
OK? So you’ll play?
NOAH
You guys do suck so I’ll try and
help you out. I can’t make any
guarantees, we’ll just have to see
how it goes.
PEDRO
That’s a start! Rockpaw!!
The entire team ad libs cheers for "Rockpaw." They all high
five each other and high five Noah.
67.
INT. CHAPEL - DAY
Father Ed sits at his desk, working. He hears a door slam. It’s
six a.m. He gets up and walks into the hallway.
INT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
He follows the noise down the hallway all the way to the men’s
room. He opens the door.
INT. MEN'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Noah is filling the mop bucket. He starts gathering up the
garbage as Father Ed walks in.
NOAH
Good morning, Father.
FATHER ED
Your detention is over.
NOAH
I like the routine. Keeps me busy.
Plus I’m up anyway. Night terrors
are so much fun.
FATHER ED
Alrighty. As you were.
Father Ed turns to leave. Noah resumes mopping the floors.
NOAH
Father, can I ask you something?
Why aren’t you helping out with
coaching?
Father Ed stops and turns toward Noah. Noah continues mopping.
He’s all business.
FATHER ED
Baseball and me..that was a
lifetime ago.
NOAH
You took a vow of celibacy, but
you didn’t take a vow giving up
baseball. If I’m gonna play on
this team, you’re gonna need to
step up and help out with the
players. You might want to see if
you can get that uniform you wear
in a drifit.
68.
Noah continues cleaning, not even looking up. Father Ed doesn’t
say anything, just smiles and walks out.
EXT. CHAPEL - DAY
Noah walks out of the chapel and hops on his bicycle. He spots
Blake, off in the distance, dutifully practicing her wall ball.
As he gets closer, he can see she is upset as she throws the
ball as hard as she can against the wall.
Noah hops off of his bicycle and stands a short distance behind
her. She hurls the ball against the wall, missing the rebound.
Noah catches the ball barehanded as Blake spins around. She is
noticeably upset.
BLAKE
What are you doing here?
Blake raises her goalie stick to Noah as a signal for him to
throw back the ball.
NOAH
I was just leaving the chapel and
saw you practicing. Are you ok?
Noah tosses the ball back to Blake. Blake resumes her wall
ball.
BLAKE
Don’t pretend you care.
NOAH
I’m sorry for the other day. I
wasn’t myself. Come on, what’s
wrong?
BLAKE
Under Armour tryouts were a
disaster. I didn’t even make the
first round cut.
She stops the wall ball drill.
BLAKE (CONT’D)
I don’t even know why I’m out
here.
NOAH
You just need to work harder. I’ll
help you.
Noah picks up a field stick. He awkwardly tries to figure out
how to use the stick.
69.
BLAKE
I’ve worked hard! And there’s no
point. I didn’t make it. What do
you know, you don’t even play
lacrosse.
NOAH
You’re right. I don’t know
lacrosse. But I know sports, and I
know hard work. You can always
work harder.
BLAKE
Now you’re starting to piss me
off.
Noah realizes this and pivots.
NOAH
Don’t they have other regional
tryouts? You can play for one of
those teams.
BLAKE
The only region left is New York,
and the competition there is even
tougher than what I faced in the
South.
Noah scoops a lacrosse ball and awkwardly throws it to Blake.
She catches the terrible throw with her goalie stick.
NOAH
If you can make it there...you’ll
make it anywhere!
Blake tries to hold back a smile.
BLAKE
You are such a dork.
NOAH
Stop making excuses. I’ll help
you. Come on!
Blake throws the ball back to Noah and he somehow manages to
catch it with his lacrosse stick. She shakes her head, doubting
Noah.
NOAH
It’s all hand eye. Let’s go!
Noah and Blake toss the ball back and forth. Blake shakes her
head, laughs and smiles at Noah’s persistence.
70.
NOAH (CONT’D)
Snap the ball back to me. Come on!
BLAKE
You have no idea what you’re
talking about.
NOAH
Fake it ‘till you make it.
Jeter tries to get in on the action as they continue tossing
the ball back and forth.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Pre-Practice Warm-Up and Introductions
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY
The team is gathered around Coach Miller and Father Ed for a
pre-practice meeting.
COACH MILLER
As most of you know, Father Ed
used to play baseball with the New
York Mets, and he has agreed to
volunteer as my bench coach
primarily focusing on hitting and
fielding. And let’s welcome Noah.
He’ll be practicing with the team
for now.
Noah smiles, players within reach slap him on the back.
COACH MILLER (CONT’D)
Let’s start warm-ups.
MONTAGE - PRACTICE
The players are warming up.
Team running a pole from left field corner to right field
corner. Noah leads the way, with the other players trying to
catch him.
Various players doing arm circles, with the circles gradually
getting a little bit wider as they continue. The players do
same arm circles in reverse.
Players standing in a row, doing a high knees dynamic stretch.
Players in a row, doing shuffles. Noah shows Kole a better way
to do the shuffle. Kole nods in agreement and continues doing
the exercise properly.
Players in a row, doing side lunges.
71.
The pitchers, Brody, Drew, Kole and Noah swinging their arms,
doing an over under arm swing. Noah shows everyone how to do
the exercise with palms up.
COACH MILLER
(clapping his hands)
Hustle! Hustle!
Players hustling to the dugout to get their mitts. Jeter is
sleeping on the dugout bench. She doesn’t even move when the
boys run into the dugout.
Players are 10 feet apart, feet spread out, knees bent. Without
moving their lower half, players turn their shoulder, then
throw.
Father Ed walks up and down the line, watching.
FATHER ED
If you can’t play catch, you can’t
play baseball.
Players are 20 feet apart playing catch as quickly as they can.
Various players are fumbling the ball trying to do the drill.
Players are in the outfield spread out from other players doing
a long toss.
Coach Miller at the plate shagging flies. A pop up is hit just
left of center field.
CARTER AND SAM
I got it! I got it!
They both stop before they collide. The ball falls between
them.
END MONTAGE
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Post-Practice Banter
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY
The coaches are wrapping up practice.
COACH MILLER
Ok. Last one.
Coach Miller hits one last pop up to the infield.
ISAAC
Mine, mine, mine!
Isaac makes the catch at short stop.
72.
COACH MILLER
Good job. Bring it in.
Everyone hustles to the infield.
COACH MILLER
Ok. Way to hustle out there. We
definitely have some things we
need to work on but I liked the
effort everyone put in today. Make
sure you all study the signs
tonight. We have a scrimmage on
Saturday against Wando, so this
will be a good time to give
everyone a shot on the field, see
what you’re made of. Let’s get the
field cleaned up and see you
tomorrow.
The players dissipate. Everyone hustles to the shed and grabs
the rakes for the pitcher’s mound. Father Ed is on the tractor
raking the base paths.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Blake walks up to the field. She is just finishing lacrosse
practice. She steps into the dugout and sits next to Jeter,
petting him.
Brody and Noah finish cleaning the field and walk into the
dugout.
BLAKE
Mom wants us to stop at the store
on our way home to get some
almonds for Dad. He’s out.
BRODY
(to Noah)
My Dad likes to have a bowl of
almonds with a cocktail at the end
of the day. It’s his thing.
NOAH
Hey Blake.
BLAKE
Hi. How was your first practice?
NOAH
It was good.
BRODY
It was great!
73.
Brody slaps Noah on the back, hard.
NOAH
Could you go easy on the slap?
They both grab their baseball bags and head out of the dugout
towards the parking lot.
BLAKE
You need a ride?
NOAH
I’m good, I have my bike.
Blake continues walking towards her brother. She stops and
turns back to Noah.
BLAKE
See you at the dance tonight?
BRODY
Bro, you better be there. The
whole team is going.
NOAH
Sure. I guess so.
BLAKE
See you later! Bye Jeter. Bye
Noah.
Noah smiles at Blake. Brody turns and walks backwards, looking
at Noah.
BRODY
(like a girl)
Bye Noah.
Brody turns and runs past his sister.
BRODY (CONT’D)
I’m driving!
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Heartbreak at the Dance
INT. ST MICHAEL'S SCHOOL GYM - NIGHT
The music is pumping in the St. Michael’s gymnasium. Balloons
and string lights hang across the dance floor. Off to the side
are tables set up with snacks and drinks. Kids are dancing and
having a good time.
Noah walks into the gym, alone and looks around. He spots Blake
over by the refreshment table.
74.
Carter and Sam are standing by the refreshment table and they
spot Noah.
SAM
Noah!
Noah walks over to Carter and Sam.
CARTER
You want some?
Carter has a small bottle of Fireball tucked in his pocket.
NOAH
I’m good.
Brody, Kole and Pedro walk over to Noah.
KOLE
You have Fireball? Give me some.
Noah spots Principal Watts making a bee-line for his teammates.
He steps in front of her before she sees the Fireball. His
teammates scatter.
NOAH
Hello Principal Watts. Thank you
for having this dance. This is
really a great time.
WATTS
Oh. Noah. Glad to see you here.
How’s school going?
NOAH
It’s good.
Noah notices Blake walking away from the refreshment table.
Blake sees Noah and gives a subtle wave.
NOAH
Gotta go.
Noah makes his way to Blake. They meet in the middle of the
dance floor.
NOAH
Hi.
BLAKE
Hi.
NOAH
You look nice.
75.
BLAKE
Thank you. Are you having a good
time?
NOAH
I am now.
Noah smiles. Two of Blake’s teammates, MADDY and CALLIE walk
over and grab Blake.
MADDY
Blake..why are you talking to him?
BLAKE
What do you mean?
CALLIE
Didn’t he kill his Dad?
The smile leaves Noah’s face and he immediately turns and
leaves. Blake shakes her friend off of her.
BLAKE
You guys are assholes!
Blake runs after Noah. Noah races out of the gym.
BLAKE
Noah! Stop!
Genres:
["Drama","Teen","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Noah's Confession and Baseball Game
EXT. ST MICHAEL'S SCHOOL - CONTINUOUS
Blake runs out of the school. She looks out into the darkness
but doesn't see Noah anywhere.
BLAKE
Noah! Please come back!
Blake walks a little bit further towards the sport's fields.
Her instincts lead her to the baseball field.
EXT. BALL FIELD - NIGHT
Jeter comes out of the darkness and walks up to Blake.
BLAKE
Jeter...where's Noah.
Jeter turns and leads Blake to the dugout. Noah is sitting on
the bench, head hung low. Blake walks into the dugout and sits
next to Noah.
76.
NOAH
Your friends are right. I killed
my Dad. With these hands, I was
able to take another life....
I still can't shake that maybe
there was another way, but the
more I think about it, I don't
know. When I'm pitching and the
bases are loaded, I can always
find a way to get out of the
inning with minimal damage. But
this...there was no other way.
BLAKE
You did the right thing. I'm glad
you're here.
Noah looks at Blake.
NOAH
Aren’t you afraid of me?
BLAKE
I am scared. But I’m not afraid of
you. You're nothing like your
father.
Noah reaches up and tenderly touches Blake’s face. They kiss in
the dugout.
EXT. WANDO HIGH SCHOOL BALL FIELD - DAY
The Crusader’s are on the ball field playing the scrimmage
against Wando High School.
EXT. BULL PEN - CONTINUOUS
Noah is in the bullpen catching for Kole, who is warming up.
NOAH
Let me see your fast ball.
KOLE
OK. It's not pretty.
Kole winds up and throws his fastball. It is unimpressive.
NOAH
How are you gripping that thing?
Noah walks over to Kole. Kole shows him is grip. Noah takes the
ball from him and shows him a different grip.
77.
NOAH
Try gripping the ball like this.
NOAH (CONT’D)
It’s a bit easier with smaller
hands and you’ll get more spin on
the ball.
Noah goes back to catch. Kole winds up and throws. The ball
moves a bit more and makes a nice whizzing noise.
NOAH
Better! Do that when you’re out
there. Give me two more.
Coach Miller walks over to the bull pen.
COACH MILLER
Noah, do you want to pitch an
inning?
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - LATER
Noah stands on the pitcher’s mound. He rearranges the dirt on
the mound and waits for the first batter from Wando to step
into the batters box.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The batter takes a practice swing and gets set.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah winds up and throws an insane fastball right down the
middle.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The batter swings for the fences and misses for strike one.
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah looks at the ball in his mitt and grips the ball. He
brushes the dirt with his foot and digs into the rubber. He
winds up, and throws another fierce four seam strike.
78.
EXT. BATTERS'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The batter swings and misses. Pedro catches the hard thrown
ball and throws it back to Noah.
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah, working quickly, sets up and throws a nasty curve, just
hitting the outside corner.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
The batter doesn’t swing, and starts walking out of the
batter’s box knowing it is a strike looking, but just then...
UMPIRE
Ball!
PEDRO
What? Come on.
The batter stops and turns to go back to the batter’s box.
Pedro, shaking his head throws the ball back to Noah.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah catches the ball and laughs to himself. He shakes off the
call and gets set. Noah does his usual brush of the dirt with
his foot and digs into the rubber. He winds up and throws his
fastball. The batter, once again, doesn’t swing. It is
obviously a strike.
UMPIRE
Ball two!
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah’s teammates react to the bad call. They are all chirping
comments to the umpire about the terrible call.
BRODY
Shake it off, Noah.
Coach Miller and Father Ed stand by the dugout.
FATHER ED
That’s a good pitch. Throw another
one.
79.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Altercation on the Ballfield
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah gets the ball back from Pedro and stares down the umpire.
He looks down at the dirt and shakes his head.
UMPIRE
Time!
EXT. BALLFIELD - CONTINUOUS
The umpire walks over to Father Ed and Coach Miller.
UMPIRE
That’s a warning to your pitcher.
Unsportsmanlike behavior.
COACH MILLER
For what!?
UMPIRE
Starring down the umpire.
The umpire walks towards the pitcher's mound. Noah stands on
the mound, his hands by his side.
UMPIRE (CONT’D)
This is your one and only warning
for unsportsmanlike behavior.
NOAH
What?!
FATHER ED
Shake it off, Noah. Just play
ball.
NOAH
This is bullshit.
The umpire turns and makes a wide swinging motion with his arm.
UMPIRE
You’re outta here!
The players erupt. Both dugouts are on their feet. Noah
aggressively approaches the umpire. The infield and outfield
rush in to try and stop Noah, as well as Father Ed and Coach
Miller. Noah chest bumps the umpire.
NOAH
Your calls suck!
UMPIRE
Go complain to your mommy.
80.
Noah instantly winds up and decks the umpire. He goes down like
a sack of potatoes.
All of Noah’s teammates pile on as the Wando bench empties onto
the field. It is complete chaos.
Father Ed finally grabs Noah by the jersey and pulls him out of
the fray.
UMPIRE
I’m filing a complaint with the
SCHSL. His season’s over!
FATHER ED
Let’s go!
Father Ed pushes Noah away from the umpire.
NOAH
What’s the SCHSL?
FATHER ED
They govern South Carolina high
school sports.
Coach Miller catches up to Noah and Father Ed.
COACH MILLER
(to Noah)
What were you thinking?
NOAH
He told me to complain to my
mommy!
FATHER ED
(to Coach Miller)
Get him in the locker room.
Coach Miller walks away with Noah. Father Ed turns and walks to
the umpire, who is tending to his face.
FATHER ED (CONT’D)
Blue, can I talk to you.
UMPIRE
That kid’s done. I don’t care what
you say.
FATHER ED
You made a comment about his
mother?
UMPIRE
So what? The kid’s a punk.
81.
FATHER ED
He shouldn’t have done what he
did, but he’s just a kid, and he
just lost his mother and father.
UMPIRE
Oh, come on!
FATHER ED
Would I lie to you?
The umpire sighs and shakes his head.
UMPIRE (CONT’D)
OK. I’ll let this go, but I still
need to document it. He’ll have to
sit for an in season game.
FATHER ED
Fair enough.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
Team Meeting: Tournament Announcement and Noah's Concerns
INT. WEIGHT ROOM - LATER
The entire baseball team is lifting in the weight room. Coach
Miller and Father Ed walk in and post a paper on the bulletin
board.
COACH MILLER
Everybody, I have the schedule for
the Tri-County tournament. Looks
like we are up against the
toughest team first because we’re
the lowest seed.
Players stop lifting and walk over to the board. Nick is the
first one at the board.
NICK
We’ve got Berkeley first? How are
we supposed to get past them?
GAVIN
Don’t they have that guy that
throws 90 plus?
CARTER
Dude, I played against him this
summer. Donnie Stevens. He was
sick! He was sitting comfortably
at 93. He just committed to Vandy.
If he even goes there. He might
get drafted right out of high
school.
82.
KOLE
(to his Dad)
If he’s pitching, you gotta start
Noah.
Noah is silently listening. Everyone ad-libs in agreement with
Kole.
ISAAC
Oh no..Diamond Prospects just
posted on twitter about the fight
with the umpire...”pitcher Noah
Rockford’s talent and temper on
full display. Hailing from Texas
and a troubled past.”
All of the players in the locker room grab their phones.
NOAH
Oh shit...
FATHER ED
That’s enough. Phones away. Keep
lifting.
Coach Miller and Father Ed walk out of the weight room. The
boys reluctantly go back to their lift workout.
INT. WEIGHT ROOM - LATER
The players are wrapping up the workout and are cleaning up,
putting weights back, etc. Bennett walks over to Noah.
BENNETT
Noah, Coaches wants to see you in
the office.
Noah grabs his towel and heads out of the weight room.
INT. COACH MILLERS'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Coach Miller is at his desk. Father Ed leans on the wall beside
him. Noah knocks and pokes his head in.
NOAH
You wanted to see me?
FATHER ED
Come in...take a seat.
Noah sits across from Coach Miller.
83.
NOAH
What’s up?
FATHER ED
Kole was spot on with you starting
against Berkeley.
NOAH
I can still play?
COACH MILLER
This is a pre-season tournament,
so yes.But you’ll have to sit for
our first in-season game for what
you did.
FATHER ED
Do you think you’re up to it?
NOAH
I think so.
FATHER ED
What about up here?
Father Ed points to his head.
FATHER ED (CONT’D)
You need to control your anger, I
don’t care if you’re right or
wrong. Punching umpires will get
you thrown off of this team.
NOAH
I know. But what if I can’t? What
if I’m damaged, like my dad?
FATHER ED
You’re not damaged. You’re a
teenage boy who needs to learn how
to control his emotions. Believe
me, I wanted to punch that ump in
the face, too. But I didn’t
because that’s not the right way
to handle things. You need to let
us handle the umpires, or
anything else that may happen in
the game. That’s our job. Your
job is to play baseball and let
us take care of you when you’re
out there. And ignore the social
media.
NOAH
Yes, sir.
84.
COACH MILLER
Good. Just a heads up though. I
have confirmation that Donnie
Stevens will be starting that
game. Do you know what that means?
NOAH
The kid that throws 94, yea, I
know.
Noah grins and nods his head. Coach Miller grins back at him.
COACH MILLER
OK. Get ready.
Noah gets up and walks to the door. He stops and turns.
NOAH
Everyone should really work on
hitting this week. All we need is
one run to beat them.
Coach Miller and Father Ed nod in agreement.
FATHER ED
I like how you’re thinking.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Team Practice and Bonding
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - DAY
MONTAGE - PRACTICE
Players burst with energy in the batting cages, swinging with
precision. Sam receives personalized coaching from Father Ed on
perfecting his bunting technique.
Brody live pitches to Sam. He bunts down the third base line.
Gavin charges the ball and makes the throw to first for the
out. The runner on first, Drew, safely advances to second.
In the bullpen, Noah unleashes a thunderous fastball to Pedro,
who is catching. Father Ed watches with admiring approval.
Kole, taking Noah’s advice to “eat everything,” sits in the
dugout eating from a jar of peanut butter.
Team running a pole from left field corner to right field
corner. Noah leads the charge while Brody fiercely trails
behind, igniting a competitive spirit among the players.
Various players doing arm circles, with the circles gradually
getting a little bit wider as they continue. The players do
same arm circles in reverse.
85.
Noah in the bullpen with Pedro. He throws an amazing curve
ball.
Coach Miller at the plate hits a bunt down the third baseline.
Brody charges the bunt from the pitchers mound and instead of
throwing it to first, he fires it to second and it sails over
Isaac’s head.
COACH MILLER
What was that? The plays at first
base. Get the easy out.
BRODY
Sorry coach.
COACH MILLER
Run a pole for that one.
Everybody, get the balls and bring
it in.
END MONTAGE
EXT. BALL FIELD - LATER
Kole and Noah gather baseballs in the outfield. Jeter lies
under a nearby oak tree.
NOAH
What happened to your Mom?
KOLE
She had colon cancer. She died
this past summer.
NOAH
I’m sorry. That's tough.
KOLE
I’m sorry about your parents. Are
you still seeing them? In the
stands? Sometimes I think I see my
Mom, like in a crowd of people or
something.
Noah looks seriously at Kole. Then he looks at the stands,
clearly seeing his Mom and Dad sitting there together. Jeter
sits up and looks at the stands, too.
NOAH
Sometimes. I'm learning to live
with it.
86.
Kole and Noah continue picking up baseballs in silence. Noah
grabs one, turns and imitates throwing a basketball into the
bucket with the baseball, redirecting the sad energy.
NOAH (CONT’D)
For the three pointer!
KOLE
Doesn’t even hit the rim!
EXT. LAURA'S HOUSE - LATER
Laura pulls into the driveway and gets out of her car to walk
inside. Coach Miller steps onto the porch.
COACH MILLER
Laura..you got a sec?
She looks tired and preoccupied.
LAURA
Sure. Just let me drop my stuff
and change. I’ll be right there.
COACH MILLER
OK.
Laura walks into her house.
INT. COACH MILLERS'S HOUSE - LATER
There is a knock at the door.
COACH MILLER
Come in!
Laura walks into the kitchen to find dirty dishes in the sink
and a slight clutter adorning the space. While not pristine,
it’s far from being considered filthy. Wearing a cozy t-shirt
and jeans, she exudes a newfound sense of comfort compared to
mere moments ago.
COACH MILLER
Beer?
LAURA
Definitely.
Coach Miller cracks open two long necks and hands Laura a beer.
LAURA
Thanks Coach. Cheers
87.
They both take a swig of beer.
COACH MILLER
Cheers. And please, call me
Jackson, or I might make you run
poles.
LAURA
All right. Jackson. So what’s up?
COACH MILLER
Did Noah tell you about the
tournament this weekend?
LAURA
Yes, he did. I can’t make the
game, but I volunteered for the
team lunch. I have a legal consult
with some clients.
COACH MILLER
Well, I thought you should know
that he’s starting against
Berkeley. Which means that every
scout in the country will be there
checking out Berkeley’s star
pitcher, Donnie Stevens.
Laura takes a satisfying swig of her beer.
LAURA
This is a real opportunity for the
team. Maybe one of your players
will do something exceptional and
get noticed by one of those
scouts.
Laura smiles at Coach Miller as she takes another sip of beer.
COACH MILLER
You think Noah is ready for this?
LAURA
He’s surviving. He knows who he is
and what he can handle. I think he
needs this. Can I ask you a
personal question?
COACH MILLER
Depends on the question.
LAURA
Where is Mrs. Miller?
Coach Miller takes a sip of beer.
88.
COACH MILLER
My wife, Jenny, she passed away at
the beginning of the year. Colon
cancer.
LAURA
I’m sorry. That must have been
tough for the two of you.
COACH MILLER
I appreciate that. It was. Still
is.
Coach Miller holds his beer bottle up to Laura.
COACH MILLER
To surviving.
Laura clings her bottle with his.
LAURA
Cheers. To surviving.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Noah's Early Morning Struggle
INT. LAURA WOOD’S HOUSE - NIGHT
Noah is jolted out of his sleep. He sits straight up, drenched
in sweat, breathing heavily. It’s 4 am. Jeter sits up and jumps
off the bed. He sits in the doorway, staring at Noah. This is a
nightly routine.
Noah swings his legs out of the bed and he sits for a moment,
gathering his thoughts. He gets up and walks to the door.
NOAH
Let’s go.
EXT. LAURA’S HOUSE - NIGHT
A full moon illuminates the front yard. It’s a warm, Charleston
evening. Crickets are chirping loudly. Noah, dressed in a t-
shirt, shorts and sneakers walks out the front door with Jeter.
He does a quick stretch and then begins his nightly insomnia
jog.
EXT. ST MICHAEL’S SCHOOL - MOMENTS LATER
Noah and Jeter jog to the ball field. Noah walks into the
dugout. He retrieves a small bag under the dugout bench. It’s
filled with weighted balls.
89.
Noah takes the bag and walks over to the dugout wall. He dumps
the bag, gets down on one knee with his back to the wall. He
begins doing a reverse throw drill against the brick wall. The
thud of the ball hitting the wall pierces the quiet of the
night. With every thud, he sees his father's head hitting the
ground.
The ball seems to get heavier and heavier. Noah tries to throw
harder, but the emotional pain on his face is palpable. He
stops throwing and finally cries for the first time, alone in
the dark.
FATHER ED (O.S.)
Noah, you can’t change the past.
Let your eyes look straight ahead.
Father Ed stands a few feet behind Noah.
Noah, startled, looks at Father Ed, trying to find the meaning
in his words.
FATHER ED (CONT’D)
What do you have? What have you
always had?
Noah looks down at the baseball in his hand.
BEGIN FLASHBACK
Noah at 12 years old looks at the baseball in his hand. He
stands on the mound, looking straight ahead at the catcher’s
mitt, waiting for his pitch.
FATHER ED (V.O.)
Fix your gaze directly before you.
It’s what you do from this moment
on that will determine your
future.
END FLASHBACK
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
Preparation and Uncertainty
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - NIGHT
Noah stares down at a baseball in his hand. He stands on the
mound, the moon illuminating the dark morning sky, looking at
the empty batters box.
EXT. SCHOOL PARKING LOT - DAY
The school bus is idling in the parking lot, all set to take
the players to Berkeley. Laura hands bagged lunches to the boys
as they get on the bus.
90.
Noah grabs a lunch, turns and whistles to Jeter.
NOAH
I’ll see you at the game?
LAURA
No, I have mediation.
Laura sees the look of disappointment on Noah’s face. He can’t
help but remember his mother missing that last game.
LAURA (CONT’D)
But I’ll try, OK?
NOAH
Can you just text me or something,
to let me know either way?
LAURA
Of course.
Noah and Jeter board the bus. Coach Miller and Father Ed are
the last two to get on.
INT. BUS - CONTINUOUS
Coach Miller sits in the first row, Father Ed is driving.
FATHER ED
Grab your seats, boys.
The bus pulls away from the school as Laura looks on.
INT. BUS - CONTINUOUS
Noah sits at the back of the bus, Jeter by his side. He stares
out the window. He looks far away and lost in his thoughts,
thinking about the upcoming game. The rest of the team is
chatting and loudly interacting with each other.
EXT. BERKELEY HIGH SCHOOL - CONTINUOUS
The Crusader’s Baseball team exits the bus. Noah, along with
Jeter are the last ones off. They make their way to the ball
field.
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The Crusader’s enter the dugout.
91.
They quickly leave their baseball bags, get their mitts and
head to the field to warm up.
EXT. BERKELEY HOME DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The Berkeley Stags high school baseball team drop their bags in
the dugout, grab their mitts and exit the dugout to the field
for warm ups. DONNIE STEVENS grabs his mitt and heads to the
bull pen with the head coach. DONNIE’S DAD joins them.
DONNIE’S DAD
Donnie, every scout is here. Cubs,
Mets, Los Angeles, Texas and most
importantly, the Yankees. Do you
have power bars and Celsius in the
dugout for Donnie?
STAG COACH
He’s got everything.
DONNIE’S DAD
This better not be like the state
championships. Donnie needs more
than just water to hydrate.
STAG COACH
That was my screw up. Won’t happen
again.
DONNIE'S DAD
It better not. My son’s trending
with a possible five million
dollar signing bonus in the draft
with the Yankees on the line. I’ll
hold you personally responsible if
Donnie doesn’t have everything
that he needs. You’ll be coaching
the small bus baseball team if
this gets fucked up.
STAG COACH
We are on point. No fuck ups.
Donnie just needs to go out there
and win.
DONNIE
I feel good, ready to kick some
ass.
92.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
The Scout's Arrival
EXT. BERKELEY PARKING LOT - CONTINUOUS
A late model sedan pulls into a parking space in the parking
lot. Anthony Brunetti is at the wheel. He puts the car in park.
ANTHONY
(to himself)
Let’s see what this kids got.
Anthony reaches over to the glove box, pulls out a flask, and
takes a big swig. It’s déjà vu, as he puts the flask in his
jacket pocket and exits the vehicle.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD BLEACHERS - CONTINUOUS
Anthony walks up to the bleachers. All of the scouts react to
seeing him.
SCOUT #1
There he is. Anthony Brunetti.
SCOUT #2
Why are you here? There’s nothing
to see.
ANTHONY
Funny. I’m just looking to watch a
little baseball on a beautiful,
sunny afternoon.
SCOUT #2
The Yankees are stacked. Give
someone else a chance.
Anthony unfazed.
ANTHONY
Don’t worry boys, this is
anybody’s game. Anyway, I’m not
sold on this kid.
SCOUT #1
You’re not sold on a 95 mile per
hour fast ball? Ha!
SCOUT #2
Word is the Yankees are willing to
go as high as 5 mil for Stevens.
ANTHONY
I think he’s more like 91, and you
shouldn’t pay attention to rumors
like that. Let’s see what happens
today.
93.
Players are warming up in the background. Donnie is throwing in
the home team bullpen. Noah is warming up in the away bullpen.
INT. LAURA’S OFFICE - DAY
Laura hurriedly exits the elevator. She rushes down the hallway
and into the waiting conference room.
INT. LAW OFFICE CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Laura’s client, Jen, is seated at the conference table across
from her soon to be ex-husband Steve, and his attorney, Brad.
Laura hurriedly places her files on the table and takes her
seat next to Jen.
LAURA
Sorry I’m late. How’s everyone
doing today?
STEVE
We were just discussing the
custody of the fish.
LAURA
Fish?
STEVE
Yes. There is a 500 gallon custom
built-in fish tank with an
assortment of exotic fish and
plantings.
Laura takes notes listening to the argument. She slightly rolls
her eyes at the pettiness.
JEN
I don’t want them. They’re your
fish, get them out of there or I’m
flushing them.
BRAD
You’re getting the house! I’m
moving into a one bedroom shoe
box! They’re your problem, now.
LAURA
What did you say?
BRAD
Her house, her problem.
Laura sits back in her seat.
94.
LAURA
Huh. I have to go.
Laura leaves everything on the table, grabs her bag and exits.
Jen, Steve and Brad awkwardly look at each other, confused.
Jen glares at her soon-to-be ex-husband.
JEN
Even she can’t stand you.
EXT. AWAY BULL PEN - DAY
Noah throws one more warm-up pitch to Pedro.
NOAH
I’m good.
PEDRO
Let’s go, Rockpaw!
Noah exits the bull pen and looks at the stands, zoning in on
the scouts. He recognizes Anthony, and pulls his hat down.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Players are lined up on the field, hats off.
ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
Please rise for the playing of our
national anthem.
The national anthem starts playing. Everyone stands at
attention.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Coach Miller and Father Ed stand next to the dugout.
FATHER ED
Everyone, bring it in.
Everyone gathers around Father Ed and Coach Miller. Father Ed
takes a knee, everyone leans in.
FATHER ED
Please bless today’s game, our
opponent, our team, and all
watching our play. Thank you for
the opportunity to compete and
bring out the best in each other.
(MORE)
95.
FATHER ED (CONT’D)
May we play hard and fair. Please
keep everyone safe from injury and
harm. We pray in the name of the
Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Spirit – Amen.
Everyone makes the sign of the cross.
PLAYERS
Amen.
COACH MILLER
Hands in
Players put their hands in.
EVERYONE
One, two, three. Crusaders!
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Laura walks into the stadium and makes her way to the stands.
She grabs a seat a few rows behind Anthony. Blake is seated in
the stands right behind Laura.
INSERT - LAURA’S IPHONE
A text to Noah says “I’m here.”
BACK TO SCENE
Blake taps Laura on the shoulder. Laura turns to Blake.
BLAKE
Are you Noah’s Aunt?
LAURA
Yes. Who are you?
BLAKE
I’m Blake, a friend of Noah’s. My
brother, Brody, is also on the
team. Can I sit with you?
LAURA
Of course!
Laura moves her bag to make room for Blake.
96.
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah looks at his phone and sees the text message. He goes to
the end of the dugout and looks to the stands.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
In the distance, sitting in the stands, Laura and Blake chat
away. It is reminiscent of Noah wanting his mom to sit with his
"future supermodel girlfriend to watch him throw strikes."
EXT. DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah sighs with relief. He focuses his attention back to the
team.
NOAH
Come on Drew! Get your pitch and
drive it!
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The home team takes the field. Donnie slowly but deliberately
walks to the pitcher’s mound. He begins a warmup with the
catcher.
In the stands, the scouts are well positioned with radar guns,
stop watches, etc.
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Drew Messina steps into the batters box for the Crusaders.
Donnie throws the first pitch, a sizzler of a fastball. Drew
swings and misses.
Donnie’s Dad cheers him on from the stands.
A radar machine is set up on a table behind home plate. It is
connected to an app on their cell phones. The speed is 93 mph.
Scouts are intently watching.
Donnie throws a curve and Drew swings and misses terribly.
Crusaders players are intently watching and cheering on Drew.
97.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
Donnie Dominates
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Crusaders team leans on the dugout fence, intently watching the
game.
ISAAC
Make him throw a strike.
EXT. BALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Donnie throws the next pitch and misses high for a ball.
Players ad-lib “good eye," etc.
Drew steps out of the batter box, adjusts his gloves and steps
back in. Donnie throws another fastball and Drew strikes out
looking.
UMPIRE
Strike three!
The catcher throws the ball back to Donnie. Donnie is cocky and
confident.
The next batter, Brody, steps up. Donnie throws the first pitch
and Brody gets a piece of it, popping it up right back to
Donnie. He easily makes the out.
Brody heads back to the dugout. He takes off his helmet and
sits next to Jeter.
BRODY
(to Jeter)
That was ugly.
Gavin steps up to the plate. He takes several practice swings
and gets ready.
Three fastballs, three strikes, he’s out.
Berkeley hustles off the field as the Crusaders hustle onto the
field.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
The scouts are all talking to each other, not paying attention
to the Crusader team on the field behind them. Noah is on the
mound warming up with Pedro. Laura takes out her cell phone and
is filming Noah warming up.
SCOUT #1
Wow. That kid looks good. I think
I’ve seen enough.
98.
SCOUT #2
You’re leaving already?
SCOUT #1
No. Just grabbing a hot dog from
concessions. What about you
Brunetti? Can you confirm the
Yankees are going after him?
ANTHONY
(laughing)
No comment. Hey can you get me a
hot dog? With mustard.
Brunetti hands him two dollars. Laura continues filming. She is
getting the scouts comments as well.
SCOUT #1
Is this guy for real?
In the background, the first batter steps into the batters box.
The scouts aren’t even paying attention to the field, after
all, they are only there to see Donnie. Noah winds up and
throws the first pitch. The sound of the ball slamming into
Pedro’s mitt is a sound that can’t be ignored. The scouts
immediately turn and look at their phone app. It’s 96 MPH.
SCOUT #2
Is that right?
Their focus immediately turns to the field. The scouts grab
their guns, video cameras and cell phones. It’s all very
intense, very quickly.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
Noah's Past Revealed
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Coach Miller and Father Ed look at each other and then look at
the scouts in the stands.
FATHER ED
Oh man he looks good.
COACH MILLER
He sure does.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah digs his foot into the rubber. He winds up and throws
another four seam fastball.
99.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
The fastball is filthy, this time 97 mph. Scouts have out
stopwatches and notepads. It’s strike two.
Anthony flips through his book, looking for the name of the
pitcher.
ANTHONY
Who is this kid? He seems
familiar...
EXT. BERKELEY HOME DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
All of the players intently watch. Donnie downs a Celsius and
tries to act casual, but after the next pitch he stands and
watches intently.
DONNIE
What the heck is this?
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Scouts are flipping through rosters and names.
LAURA (O.S.)
It’s Noah Rockford.
Anthony turns to see who said that to him. The first batter
strikes out in the background. Laura stops filming.
ANTHONY
He looks different. The hair.
LAURA
He relocated here with me from
Texas. He’s at St. Michael’s
Catholic. The dress code doesn’t
allow long hair.
(to Blake)
Come on.
Laura and Blake head out of the stands. The scouts look
dumbfounded.
SCOUT #1
That’s the same Noah Rockford from
Argyle High School in Texas?
ANTHONY
Same one.
100.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Laura walks down to the stands on the away dugout side. Blake
follows her. She and Blake stand by the fence away from
everyone, watching Noah pitch.
LAURA
It’s too nerve wracking up there.
Blake and Laura watch through the fence.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah stares down the next batter. He winds up and throws a
heater. The sound of the ball is impossible to ignore. The
batter swings and misses by a mile.
UMPIRE
Strike!
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah. Noah does a quick spin
around the mound. He adjusts the dirt with his foot and digs
his rear foot into the rubber. After one deep breath he quickly
throws another decisive fastball strike.
UMPIRE
Strike two!
EXT. BERKELEY HOME DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Donnie anxiously steps to the dugout fence. He’s watching the
scouts watch Noah.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah, slow motion, winding up and throwing a curve that looks
like it is coming in high, but it breaks right into the zone.
The batter doesn’t swing.
UMPIRE
Strike three!
EXT. BERKELEY HOME STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Donnie’s Dad is pacing and looks pissed off.
DONNIE'S DAD
(to coach)
Who is this kid? What’s going on?
Is he even in high school?
101.
A parent reads off of his cell phone.
PARENT IN STANDS
His name is Noah Rockford. He’s
from Texas. His father killed his
mother right in front of the kid
last year. Look.
The parent hands the phone to Donnie’s Dad.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Seventh Inning Showdown
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah twirls the baseball in his mitt that he holds to his
chest. He grips the ball, winds up and throws another hard
fastball, batter swings and misses.
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah
PEDRO
(to hitter)
That was filthy.
Noah briefly walks around the mound and stops, positioning his
foot on the rubber. Pedro calls for another fast ball, and Noah
delivers another blistering strike.
UMPIRE
Strike!
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah. Noah adjusts his foot on
the mound, sinks in and delivers a fast breaking ball. The
batter swings and misses. Pedro drops the third strike, but
quickly picks up the ball and tags the batter making the out.
Noah confidently walks off the mound back to the dugout. Isaac
pats him on the back as he runs by him.
Coach Miller and Father Ed high five Noah as he walks by.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - LATER
It’s the seventh inning and the game is tied 0-0. Donnie is on
the mound pitching. He faces the first batter, and he gets him
out with a pop fly to deep left field. The outfielder makes a
great running catch to get the out.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Carter steps up to hit, and in comes the first pitch, hitting
him square in the lower back.
102.
KOLE
Don’t rub it!
Carter shakes off the pain and quickly takes first base. The
Crusader dugout cheers wildly.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Donnie’s Dad reacts
DONNIE’S DAD
(defensively)
That’s what you get for crowding
the plate.
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah is sitting with Jeter, watching the beginning of Donnie’s
implosion on the mound. Noah walks over to Sam, who is about to
go in to hit.
NOAH
Sam, lay down a bunt, right down
the third base line.
SAM
I'll try.
Noah looks to Father Ed, who is standing on the third base
sideline. Noah makes the bunt sign to Father Ed. Father Ed nods
and makes the sign for Carter to see on first base. Carter
takes a nice lead off of the bag.
Genres:
["Drama","Sports"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
The Bottom of the Seventh
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Sam steps into the batters box. He gets ready.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Donnie looks at Carter, then throws the first pitch. It's a
slightly high 89 MPH fastball and Sam doesn’t swing.
UMPIRE
Ball!
A bead of sweat drips down Donnie’s forehead.
103.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Sam steps back into the box. Donnie winds up and throws another
fastball, right down the middle. Sam slides his hand down the
bat and lays down a perfect bunt that hugs the third base line
and stays in fair territory.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Sam runs to first. Berkeley third baseman charges the bunt, as
well as Donnie. Donnie gets to the ball first and is about to
throw it to first for the out, but instead, zings it to second.
The ball sails over the second baseman’s head into centerfield.
The Berkeley center fielder makes the backup play and fires the
ball to third base, holding Carter and the run. Sam advances to
second.
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The Crusader’s dugout is on its feet, cheering.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Donnie gets the ball back from the catcher. He paces the mound,
angry at himself for making the wrong play. Nick steps into the
batter’s box.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Donnie takes a deep breath, and throws the first pitch. It's an
87 MPH fastball. Nick takes a swing and just catches the tip of
the ball. The hit finds the hole and makes it to right field.
Carter runs home and easily scores, Sam advances to third. The
right fielder charges the ball and makes the out at first base
for two outs. But the damage is done. Score is now 1-0.
EXT. BATTER'S BOX - CONTINUOUS
Bennett steps into the batter’s box, hitting for Noah.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Donnie throws the first pitch. Bennet pops it up, with the
centerfielder easily making the third out. The Berkeley team
quickly clears the field.
104.
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Noah grabs his mitt and heads out of the dugout. He walks past
Father Ed and Coach Miller.
NOAH
Let’s win this.
COACH MILLER
You’re at 86 pitches.
Noah nods confidently.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Anthony and all of the scouts are still watching the game. It
is the bottom of the seventh inning. Noah is pitching a no-
hitter.
EXT. BERKELEY HOME STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Donnie’s Dad nervously watches.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Noah is facing the top of their lineup. The first batter takes
a few swings in the batter’s box. The umpire positions himself
behind Pedro, signaling its time to play ball.
The batter steps into the box and gets ready.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah is hyper focused and stares down the batter. He takes a
deep breath, winds up and throws the first pitch.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
Crack! The batter hits one high and far down the first base
line. Brody, in right field, gets a good jump on the ball. It
is barely hanging on to fair territory. Brody leaps for the
ball and makes an incredible catch for the first out.
Brody throws the ball to Nick at first, he fires it to Justin
at second, then Gavin at third. Gavin throws the ball back to
Noah on the mound.
105.
Genres:
["Sports","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Noah's Pitch
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah pushes the dirt on the mound with his foot. He gathers
himself and waits for the next batter to enter the box.
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The next batter steps into the box. He looks determined as he
takes a practice swing.
EXT. BERKELEY HOME DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
The Berkeley dugout is loud and raucous. They are pumped to try
and win this game, vociferously cheering on the batter.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah gets set, takes a deep breath, and throws a breaking ball
right down the middle. The hitter gets a piece of it, smacking
a line drive right back to Noah.
The batter runs not even five steps down the baseline when
somehow Noah manages to get his glove up in time making a sick
backhanded catch to get the out.
The runner slowly runs through first base and defeated, heads
back to the dugout.
The final batter comes to the plate. Noah looks at the stands.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
All of the scouts are still watching, behind the scouts in the
top row Noah sees his Mom and Dad. Noah freezes. The sound of a
dog barking is heard off screen.
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Jeter has his paws up on the dugout fence. He is barking at
Noah, trying to bring him back to the game.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah snaps out of it and adjusts his hat on his head. He looks
down at the baseball in his hand, and grips the ball, preparing
to throw a four seam. He looks back to the stands.
106.
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
Anthony meets Noah’s stare, and realizes he is looking beyond
him. He turns to see, but nobody is there.
ANTHONY
What is he doing?
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The batter is in the box, waiting for his pitch.
PEDRO
Time, time, time.
UMPIRE
Time!
The batter steps out of the box. Pedro runs to the mound to
talk to Noah. Noah relaxes as Pedro approaches. He puts his
mitt to his face to hide what he is saying from everyone else.
PEDRO
I’m kind of hungry. You think you
can strike this guy out so we can
go get pizza or something?
NOAH
I can do that.
PEDRO
Quit looking at your parents in
the stands and focus on the game.
NOAH
It’s that obvious?
PEDRO
Even the dog knows what’s going
on. You got this.
Pedro goes back to home plate. The batter steps into the box.
The umpire motions to play ball.
Noah glances at his parents in the stands. He shakes it off,
winds up and with everything he has, throws a blistering
strike. The batter swings and misses.
Genres:
["Sports","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
Noah's Triumph and the Yankees' Offer
EXT. STANDS - CONTINUOUS
The radar gun blares 98 MPH.
107.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Pedro throws the ball back to Noah. Noah quickly adjusts the
ball in his mitt. Without hesitation, he fires off another
nasty strike. This one breaks into the dirt, with the batter
swinging and missing.
UMPIRE
Strike Two!
EXT. AWAY DUGOUT - CONTINUOUS
Jeter barks, as if cheering for Noah. Coach Miller and Father
Ed are on their feet. Laura and Blake lean on the fence,
anxiously watching.
EXT. PITCHER'S MOUND - CONTINUOUS
Noah brushes the dirt on the mound with his foot, getting it
just the way he likes it. He presses his foot against the
rubber, takes a deep breath and winds up, in slow motion. The
ball releases from his hand and moves its way down the mound,
whizzing across the plate. The batter swings in slow motion,
and the ball moves at the last moment, just missing the bat.
UMPIRE
Strike three!
EXT. BASEBALL FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The field erupts. The players charge Noah on the mound. Jeter
runs onto the field. It’s an insane celebration for a pre-
season game. Father Ed and Coach Miller get caught up in the
celebration. The moment is much bigger than the game. It is a
victory for Noah.
COACH MILLER
OK, ok, everyone line up.
The Berkeley team lines up on the first base side. The
Crusaders line up on the third base side. Both teams do the
usual walk past each other, saying good game.
The players walk off the field, back to their respective
dugouts. Noah takes a quick glance at the stands, but his
parents are gone.
108.
EXT. BUS PARKING LOT - LATER
The team loads their baseball bags under the bus. Parents are
in the parking lot congratulating the boys. Blake gives Noah a
big hug as Laura looks on.
LAURA
You were so good. Damn!
NOAH
It felt good.
Anthony approaches Noah. He extends his hand.
ANTHONY
Hi Noah. Anthony Brunetti with the
Yankees.
NOAH
I remember you.
Anthony hands him a card.
ANTHONY
The Yankees are very interested in
talking to you about the draft. We
can come to you, or fly you to New
York, whatever works best.
Laura hands Anthony a card.
LAURA
Here’s my card. Why don’t you call
my office tomorrow and we can
talk.
Noah is getting slapped on the back every time someone walks
past him to get on the bus. He has a huge smile on his face and
just wants to go with his team.
NOAH
Sir, I appreciate the interest,
but I think I’m just going to
enjoy my high school season, and
then I’m heading to college to
play.
ANTHONY
The Yankees are prepared to offer
you a significant signing bonus.
NOAH
Like the 5 million you're offering
Donnie Stevens?
109.
ANTHONY
Well, that’s just a rumor, but
something like that.
LAURA
This isn’t the right time to have
this discussion. Let's save it for
tomorrow. Enjoy your bus ride home
with the team.
NOAH
I don’t need to save it.
I’m going to college.
(to Laura)
I really like Clemson. It’s close
to you in Charleston. It’s what my
Mom would have wanted. But most
importantly, it’s what I want. I’m
not ready for the big leagues.
LAURA
Are you sure?
NOAH
Yes, I’m sure. Will the Yankees
wait a few years?
ANTHONY
I guess we’ll have to. If you
change your mind, you know how to
reach me. Good luck kid.
Anthony just shrugs his shoulders. Laura is dumfounded but ok
with it.
LAURA
You just turned down a ton of
money, you realize that.
NOAH
I guess I'll have to be your
problem for a little while longer.
LAURA
That sounds great to me. See you
at home.
Noah hugs Laura. Blake is beaming with pride.
NOAH
Thanks for being here.
They hug.
110.
BLAKE
I wouldn't miss it. You were so
good.
NOAH
See you this weekend?
BLAKE
I can’t. I’m heading to New York
for Under Armour tryouts. I’ll be
back Sunday.
NOAH
That’s awesome! You’re gonna crush
it. See you Sunday.
Genres:
["Sports","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Triumphant Return
INT. TEAM BUS - CONTINUOUS
Noah and Jeter walk down the bus aisle to a huge celebration.
Everyone is cheering and so excited. Coach Miller and Father Ed
get on last. Father Ed sits in the driver’s seat.
TEAM
Rockpaw! Rockpaw! Rockpaw!
His teammates high-five Noah as he walks to his seat. The
celebration and excitement is overwhelming. Noah's eyes are
filled with tears of joy.
FATHER ED
(closing the bus door)
Grab your seats, boys!
Laura and Blake watch as the bus pulls out of the parking lot
and drives away.