Tuesday, November 24, 2015

David Farr walks into the locker room of the Tempe Knights Winter Ball field. Like usual, he’s the first one there. After a quick pause to find his name amongst the placards, Farr takes a seat and begins to change into his batting practice uniform. The door opens and laughter is heard…

“Well, well, well… if it isn’t David “Trip Over the Third Base Bag” Farr. How are you, buddy? What’s it been? 13 years?”

That’s the voice of Virgil Mays. Mays has been both best friend and bitter enemy to Farr for practically his whole life. The two grew up on Rock Creek Drive in Garland, Texas. They were best friends all the way through grade school. Through the years, a series of events took place that put a strain on their relationship. They now hold a deep hatred for each other, yet still manage to coexist as friends and teammates.

“Actually, it was just this past summer, and before that, it was the summer before that. I swear, I think you’re following me around. Everywhere I go, you’re right there to ruin my moment. Good ole’ “Sloppy Seconds” Mays. My best friend,” said Farr.

After playing Little League and high school ball together, Farr and Mays went their separate ways in college. Mays attended Purdue, while Farr chose Oregon State. The kicker in the story is that Jennifer Leigh, Farr’s high school sweetheart, ran off with Mays. Then, in an odd twist of fate, Farr and Mays were taken back-to-back in the 2014 PEBA draft by the Knights, creating a very awkward continuation to their friendship.

“Come on, Davey, give it a rest already. It was just a girl. Look at your life now. You’re 22 years old, you have a great girlfriend, you’re a pro baseball player, and best of all, you won a USCBA World Series. I may never get another shot at a championship.”

Mays is referring to their 2003 Little League team, one that consisted of 15 boys, 12 of which would go on to be drafted into the PEBA. The group was known as the “Rock Creek Renegade”. As Farr and Mays stare each other down with a nostalgic look in their eyes, a fog fills the room and they begin to reminisce about days gone by…

To be continued