INSIDE THE MIND OF NOLAN RYAN

I know you —
Know everything.
Know every nuance
Of your swing.

What you look for.
What you like.
The inside pitch
You’ll take for a strike.

What makes you worry,
What makes you think,
What makes you hesitate
Or blink.

Every slip.
Every mistake.
Every misjudgment
You’re apt to make.

Step into the box,
If you dare.
Endure my dark
Malicious stare.

Know my purpose.
Know my intent.
Catch the malevolent,
Sulfurous scent.

Know my cunning.
Know my power –
To make this at-bat
Your darkest hour.

Know my evil.
Know my way.
Be prepared
To rue this day.