With an upcoming start, it requires a complete change of schedule. This is obvious, but creates complete First-World problems like what to do with all the down time.

I’m usually in the stadium every day; working out, watching film, stretching, throwing and getting ready for an evening in the bullpen.

As a starter, it’s a slightly different schedule and it’s different times for each. Also, I’m not getting ready to possibly enter a game tonight. In fact, if I get in today something has gone terribly wrong.

So is it wrong that I’m a strange combination of bored and antsy as I just rest?

I’ve got a stretching session set for later, but I’d usually be in there now. Instead I’m just lying down, thinking too much about things I can’t control.

I’m eager to be on the mound right now, but just as eager for it to be over. Like the next day, after the start and dealing with the results.

Our team beat reporter asked me if I thought a good start could lead to another. It’s a great question, but I honestly can’t look past this one just yet.

Also, I’ve grown accustomed to my current role. I now the routine and what’s expected of me. It hasn’t been long, but I can see myself in this role, replaying this moment and existence for years with no issue.

Just another journeyman reliever still on the roster well into his late 30s.

But that’s an unrealistic dream. The now is only now for a moment before it becomes the past; so it’s wise to prepare for the future.

Even if you don’t know what it could hold.

I told the Beat that I was just happy to help the team however I could and hope to pitch well enough to give us a chance to win on that day. What happens afterwards is up to Skip and the front office.

What I didn’t say was what anyone in this position would say.

“I expect to pitch so well, everyone from the team president all the way to the groundskeeper intern will clamber for me to be inserted immediately into the starting rotation but Skip will know my role is vital for the overall goal of the team and keep me in the pen; holding onto my ability to start like a Spades player keeping the Little Joker in hand until it’s certain.”

Or something like that.