Summer league is almost over. 30 games done, 3 to go, and then the playoffs.
So far, son has played in 57% of the games. Would have been more but he missed 5 games when they sent him to a NACSB showcase 400 miles away. (7 hours drive each way.) He's also one of 3 catchers on the team and they try to somewhat rotate them and give them rest.
I definitely see how players have to sacrifice their summer to participate in these leagues. While I sense the team feels like they have a legitimate chance to win the championship - and they do - I also sense that some of the players will be relieved when the season is officially over.
My son is lucky because he's on a winning team. (They have won 20 of 30 so far.) Credit goes to the guy who put the team together and the players for playing well. But. There's at least half the league where the teams have struggled this season. Some of them lose 60+% of the time and get pounded by the good teams. That has to be a miserable summer. And, I have noticed their dugouts getting less crowded. I suspect their players are checking out.
Overall, I feel that it's been a good opportunity and experience for my son. Validating positive in some ways but also humbling and providing challenges and learning lessons in others. He also got to play with some very talented guys.