By the sixth inning of his final start of his first season in the majors, on Sept. 11, 2013, Jose Fernandez had done almost everything that a 21-year-old rookie pitcher could do. He had dominated the National League with his 97-mph fastball and swerving curveball, and he was doing the same against the Braves that night, putting the finishing touches on a 16–8 record, a 2.19 ERA and the Rookie of the Year award. There was just one thing left: He wanted to hit a home run.
Most players, obeying baseball tradition, turn within themselves before a start or an important plate appearance; they want to be left alone.