The Plate

Panel 1. In the umpires’ room before a game, Brad lies on the bench with a wet towel over his face. Brad: “I can’t do the plate tonight. I’m dying.”

Panel 2. Sam looks down at Brad and tilts his head, listening. Sam: “You’re not dying.”

Panel 3. Sam picks up the plate gear: shin guards, chest protector and traditional wire mask. Jeff: “You had the plate last night.” Sam: “I don’t mind.”

Panel 4. Brad lifts one corner of the wet towel and looks toward Sam. Brad: “I owe you, man.” Sam: “Drink some water.”