The Ball Park Creed

by Russell Streur

I believe in Cobb
The batter almighty
Demon of furious grace.

I believe
     in Fenway Park
     extra innings
     & the Homestead Grays.

I believe
     in the high fly ball
     the called third strike
     the double off the wall
     the sacrifice bunt
     & the suicide squeeze.

I believe
     in Alibi Ike
     the vines of Wrigley
     the Mudville Nine
     & the fields of Elysia
          where the runner scores for keeps.

I believe
     in the hanging curve
     the peg to first
     the hit and run
     Bambino's Curse
     the swing and miss
     the stolen base
     the play at the plate
     & the diamond everlasting:

I don't care if I never get back.