October

October. By now the leaves have changed color and fallen, and the refreshing chill in the air has a distinct bite to it. The sun begins to hide itself more and more, and winter's bitter frost is just around the corner, but there is still some magic left in October.

There is baseball in October, and not just any baseball: there is October baseball. 30 teams play 162 games each as the end of spring kicks off the baseball year. The long sweltering summer season sweats out the weak, and just 8 teams are left once september is gone. 30 teams, in 27 cities, with millions of fans each, all of them dreaming they will play October baseball. Only 8 will live that dream, and only two will live the ultimate dream: To play baseball late in October, when the caress of summer's warmth is completely gone.

October baseball is magical. With the flick of a pitcher's wrist, or a swing of a batter's magic wand, October can turn anyone into a hero, and it can turn any hero into a legend. Every moment in October baseball oozes importance. Each pitch, each swing, every flash of brilliant leather has a chance to change October destiny.

There, at October's bitter end, is that destiny. The last days of October are cold and dreary. They are ruled by cloudy, short days, icy rain, and razor sharp wind. The summer gave us thrills and memories, but October, despite all its gloom, summons up all of its magic and energy in its finale. One final, white hot, exciting moment. One last glorious gasp of summer. One team of destiny.

Long Live October!