"I was just happy to make it this far," Birtwell said. "The thing I'll miss most around here is the people. Without these guys, playing baseball just won't be as fun."
If there is any justice, yesterday's loss won't be the last time Birtwell takes the mound.
"I hope his next game will be in professional baseball," Walsh said yesterday. "He deserves a shot."
As the Harvard players milled around between games yesterday-their playoff hopes dashed-Birtwell went up to each one of his fellow seniors and offered them some encouragement. He even managed to crack a few smiles.
It almost seemed as if he forgot that his own Harvard career had come to a close, too. It was quintessential Birtwell, sporting an ice pack on his shoulder and his heart on his sleeve.
So don't let anyone tell you Harvard didn't have an ace this year. The Crimson did, and he just pitched his last college game yesterday.
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