At age 11, the narrator is excluded from joining a Little League team and is instead placed on the farm team. They are disappointed, but this setback only fuels their determination. 

At age 12, the narrator finally gets a chance to showcase their talent when they join a championship-winning team. They work hard and surprise everyone with their exceptional batting average. Their remarkable performance earns them recognition and applause from their teammates, coaches, and spectators.

During the season-ending awards ceremony, the narrator reflects on the significance of merit and the perils of a society that prioritizes participation over excellence. They realize that true fulfillment comes from striving for greatness and achieving tangible success, rather than simply being included or given a participation trophy.

Through the narrator's journey, Hemingway emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual achievements and fostering a culture that values excellence. In a world that often focuses on inclusivity at the expense of merit, the story serves as a reminder of the inherent satisfaction and motivation that accompanies personal accomplishment.

The Digest, 7/1/2023 @1230AM, CDT

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