Casa Vita (2016) - full transcript

RIP-FIXES-SYNC
by VaVooM

A letter came for you today.

Another rejection?

This is an invitation,

the Big League tryout camp
in Los Angeles.

You're getting
another chance, Early.

Oh, my.

Camp starts next Monday,
lasts six weeks.

I'll play for Big League
scouts at the end.

You really think
you stand a chance?

Yeah, I do.



I hit over .350
last season.

That was Division II
at a small college.

Not even 60 games.

I can do this, Pa.

What about your shoulder?

You told me yourself
no pro scout would touch you

after that injury.

I've been doing my rehab
exercises morning and night.

You come home
from a game at night,

couldn't even lift your arm.

It's better now.

I got through my last year
of college ball just fine,

no problem.

Look, it can't hurt to try,
can it?



Six weeks is too long.
I need you here.

Well, I was thinking that
you could hire Jesse Goodall.

I can't afford to take
anybody on right now.

Oh, Cliff, he's...

I'll pay Jesse's wage.

And how do you aim to do that?

I'll get a part-time job
while I'm in L.A.

This is my only chance.

Dad, I've wanted this
my whole life.

- I got in.
- Beto, no way!

Congratulations.

I'm in for the L.A. camp.

My baby boy!

Going to the Big Leagues, huh?

Great.

Ariana, I got
into the baseball camp.

You already forget you have
a scholarship to college?

Yeah, but if I get signed to
a Big League team at this camp,

I won't have to study anything
but hitting for average,

throwing down to second,
and calling games like a boss.

I got an order
for five beef tamales.

If you're not too much
of a big star yet,

can you go get me
a bag of shredded cheese

and some chorizo
from downstairs?

Yes, ma am.
Anything you say.

Thank you.

Thanks for your letter.

I'm so excited for you
backing my new restaurant.

So everything's on time?

Yes. I'm having the kitchen
equipment installed on the 24th.

Great.
Let's set up a visit.

Sure. You can meet me there.

I'd love to discuss
your thoughts on the menu.

We're looking forward
to meeting Chef Rodrigo.

He will be a part
of your daily operation?

- No.
- No?

No, my father won't be involved

in the day-to-day, but...

He is your partner on this,
right?

He's been incredibly
supportive of me my whole life.

Good. We're counting
on Chef Rodrigo to be there.

Yes.

Okay.

Yeah, you were
pretty pumped, man.

Iowa, huh?

Early Lindstrom.
Nice to meet you.

Hey, don't mind him.

Bit of an attitude,
but he's all right.

You know him?

That's Damon Thompson,
second base.

I played against him
in some tournaments.

Daddy's some big deal agent.

I'm Early.

I'd say you re
right on time, right?

Never heard that one before.

I'm Roberto Vita, catcher.

People call me Beto.
What position you play?

Shortstop.

Hope your game's in
better shape than your truck.

Oh, yeah?

So vile, man.

Being forced to live in here

is definitely like cruel
and unusual punishment.

Home sweet home.

That's mine.

Looked empty to me.

Yeah, well, I just told you.

It's taken.

No problem.

I'll take the top bunk.

Good boy.

- He's normally into the right.
- You guys ready?

Yeah, he can go
all the way, though.

- Covers a lot of ground.
- He really does.

Hey, guys,
which one's Coach Willis?

Probably the one with the name
tag that says "Coach Willis."

Blue cap with the red clipboard.

Thanks.

Let's bring it in.

Congratulations.

You've been invited here
because we believe

that you have a real chance
of playing pro baseball.

During the next six weeks,

you'll be drilling, practicing,

and playing inter-squad games

in order to showcase
your abilities.

We'll have one cut
about halfway through.

But by the end of camp,

we'll have this roster
cut down to two teams

that will square off against
each other in a final game.

That game will be
attended by scouts

from everybody in the Bigs.

Quite a few big-leaguers

have stood exactly
where you are today.

I suggest you make the most
of this chance here.

Yes, sir.

All right, gentlemen,
let's see what you got.

All right, Coach. Thank you.

Coach Willis, I just wanted
to introduce myself.

I'm Early Lindstrom.

Lindstrom. Iowa, right?

Yes, sir.
Thank you for the opportunity.

I want to see what you
can do at second base.

Second?

Sir, I'm...
I'm not sure if I'm...

They say if you can play
short, you can play anywhere.

You want to prove'em right,

or you want to prove'em wrong?

What are you looking for?

The small molcajete,
the one that I use to...

Thank you.

Hang on. I want you
to taste something.

- Honey, I'm kind of busy.
- It'll only take a second.

What is that?

This is a Mexican paella.

Paella's a Spanish dish.

This is Spanish-Mexican fusion.

I used poblano chilies,
Mexican chorizo,

and tequila.

It's... different.

- Different?
- Yeah, its tasty.

But we do traditional
authentic Mexican cuisine.

Then what about
my own restaurant?

There's opportunity out there.
I'm ready.

You're not ready.
You're not even close to ready.

And how would you know?

You've never even give me
a chance to show you that...

Mija, feel free
to experiment on your own time,

but right now, we've got
a lunch rush to prep for

and your abuela's birthday
tonight.

Come on, Blake.
Sit him down!

Go!

Move the heat!

- There it is!
- You're way behind it.

Come on, now.

Sure you want to do this?

Small-time boy like you
could get hurt.

Yep.

Clocked in about 99.

Maybe you've never seen
one like it before.

There's a first time
for everything.

Sit him down.
That's right, Blake!

Good shot. That's the way
you do it, Early.

Hey, farm boy.

Better enjoy it.
It's not gonna happen again.

All right.

You don't even know
what you just did, do you?

That's Blake Barlow, man,
the B Train.

He was undefeated in Triple-A.

He got kicked off for
conduct detrimental to the team.

Then why is he here?

Cause he's got
a 100-mile-an-hour fastball,

which you just took downtown
on your first at bat.

Yeah.

That it, right there, yeah.
Perfect. Thank you.

Okay, sure.

Let's get
a few more balloons up.

My grandma loves balloons.
Thanks.

- Hey, Ari.
- What's up?

I think you dropped this.

Thanks.

You're welcome.

What?

Who's it from?

No one.

Look, you can tell me.

I can keep a secret.

There's no secret.

Give your girl some credit.

Why don't you finish
the rest of these,

and I'll go check on
the churros?

It's a little early for
the sharks to be circling,

isn't it, Taylor?

A well-trained eye can pick up
on almost everything

it needs to know
day one of camp,

and these baby blues saw
a few things they liked today.

- Taylor Dahms.
- My dad's assistant.

Junior agent.

Hi. Early Lindstrom.

Lower Iowa, shortstop,
career .330 hitter.

Suffered a shoulder injury
on your family's farm

that disrupted
your college career,

but you worked your way
back up to top form senior year.

She's good, man,
I'm telling you.

She must be a genius if she
knows about farm boy, here.

Roberto Vita, West L.A.

Can consistently throw out base
runners and hit for average,

but bat strength and
play patience is a concern.

I'd be more concerned
about his reflexes.

Dude, bro, you are so done, man.

So you want to be an agent?

I will be. I have
a degree in sports management

and an MBA from Stanford.

And I'll tell you a secret.

My passion, it's baseball.

Mine too.

The all-American boy.

I smell endorsements.

Endorsements?

See you around, Early Lindstrom.

Hey, man, any chance
you can give me a ride to work?

I gotta start my shift
in an hour.

I've got...

I'll throw in dinner
at my family's restaurant.

I thought you didn't
like my truck.

Are you kidding me?
I love your truck.

It's, vintage.
It's a classic.

Family's restaurant?
What kind of food do they serve?

Now, that right there

is the question
to be asking, my friend.

I thought you said
it was close by.

That was only, like, six miles.

It took an hour.

Welcome to L.A.

Hey, don't sweat it.
I'm about to hook you up

with some of the best food
in the entire city.

You cooking me dinner?

This is only
our first date, man.

I'm no cook, but I work
as a server sometimes,

cause I got the gift of gab.

So who does the cooking?

My dad's the chef/owner.
He's training my sister, Ariana.

She'll end up
running the place someday,

if they don't end up
killing each other first.

By the way,
it's my abuela's birthday.

Your what?

My grandmother, so the
restaurant's officially closed.

Private party thing.

Dude, I don't want
to intrude on anything.

Oh, no, you're not gonna
get off that easy.

Come on, let's go.

- Hey.
- Hi, Beto.

Hey, there's my baby boy.
How was your first day?

Pretty good, but I didn't
blast one 400 feet

off Blake Barlow like this guy.

This is Early.
He gave me a ride.

Pleasure to meet you,
Mr. Vita.

It's quite a place
you have here.

Please, call me Rodrigo
or Chef Rodrigo.

I promised him some food.

Great. Well, why don't you
just take a seat right here.

I don't know if Beto told you,
but we're having a private party

for my mother.

Yeah, I didn't want to barge in.

No, no, you're not barging in.

Why don't you get him some
appetizers, the mixed platter?

Now you're in for it.

Okay, he'll take care of you.

Enjoy.

- Where's Freddy?
- No, no se.

Anyone seen him?

I saw him heading out back
for his break.

That was like an hour ago.

I need more tomatillo salsa
prepped, like, now.

- I'll find him.
- Thank you.

What's up, Ari?

Busy, missing a prep cook. Are
you crazy? What are you doing?

Papa's orders.

Stop! Stop it.

Customer awaits.

- Hey, Ari.
- What's up?

So I found Freddy.

He's...

You better see for yourself.

Okay.

Buen provecho.

That's "bon appétit" in Iowan.

I've never seen
Mexican food like this before.

This is real Mexican food
from the south.

What's all the black stuff
on the chicken?

That's mole sauce, Gomer.

- Wow.
- Pretty good, huh?

I can't believe you.
That is so disrespectful.

Get out! Get out of here!

I never want to see
your face again!

- Who's that?
- That is my sister.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, mija.

Mija, you can't cause
a scene like that.

He fell sleep
on abuela's birthday.

I know, but now
we have to find a prep cook.

Well, we'll just have to hire
somebody to work nights, ASAP.

I can do it.

I'm sorry.
Who are you?

I'm Early.
I met Beto today at camp.

Thank you,
but we're really fine.

Do you think
you'll have the time?

Well, we're supposed to be
done at sundown every day,

and I really need a job
while I'm here.

Hey, if you can hit a home run
off of Blake Barlow,

you can prep in my kitchen
any day.

Ariana will train you.

I typically have say in who
I work with in my kitchen.

Do you have any
professional experience?

No, but I'm
a really hard worker.

You'll be perfect as our temp

until we can find someone
permanent.

And I promise
not to fall asleep on you.

We really should discuss this.

There's no need for discussion.

My instinct says
he'll be perfect.

Trust me.

Thank you.
Good call.

Hi.

Looks delicious.
What is it?

Flan.

Custard with caramel.

Ariana.

No.

I still can't
find the difference

coming out of the hand.

All right, let me
show you something.

We're on lunch, guys.

Don't you guys have
anything better to do?

Nothing in the world
I'd rather be doing.

Okay, just don't swing.
Just watch, okay?

You see that?
It's a straight fastball.

The seams roll on top
of each other, okay?

Bottom dropped out of that hand.

Right, that's the splitter.

Yeah, but how do I know
before I swing and hit and miss.

Just read the seams, okay?
Rotation isn't as tight,

and it's gonna break
right about here.

All right?
Take a live one.

All right.

See? That's it.

Not bad, farm boy.

Not bad.

Thank you.

Is there something
I can do to help you?

It takes me time
to show you how to do things,

time I don't have right now.

There's got to be something
I can do for you.

You know what this is?

- A chili pepper?
- It's chile de arbol.

Bold heat,

15,000 to 30,000
on the Scoville scale,

has a subtle, smoky flavor.

How about this?

Easy one.

I have...
I have no idea.

Chipotle.

It's a jalapeño,
ripened then smoke-dried.

We have two varieties
we use in this kitchen,

meco and Morita.

Meco has a more intense
smoky flavor.

Okay, let me guess.

Those look like zucchinis.

Those are calabacitas.

Onions!
Those are onions, for sure.

Congratulations.

You have now justified
my father's hiring of someone

who's never stepped foot
inside a professional kitchen.

Hey, I got
one out of four, okay.

So I'm batting .250
out of the gate.

That's not bad for a start.

Please, no baseball analogies.

I gather you're not a fan.

Just don't think it's
the end-all, be-all way of life,

like some people around here.

Follow me.

Come on, let's go, Early!

Got another long ball
in you today, Nebraska?

Iowa.

Nice, Blake.
Good shot.

Here we go.

Take him deep again, Lindstrom.

Right in there, Blake.

You all right, bro?

- Hey.
- Get back in the box, kid.

What was that?

Come here and say that.
Come here and say that!

- Let me go!
- Take it easy.

- All right!
- Calm down.

Okay. I'm fine. I'm good.

- It's not worth it.
- Relax.

Ice, 20 on, 20 off.

What's this?

Ibuprofen for inflammation.

Take it.

Actually, you know what?

It's not that bad.

That's good, Max.

Early, there's a fine line

between being hard-nosed
and being a problem.

I know.
I'm sorry, Coach.

He's been out to get me ever
since I hit that fastball.

I took a risk
bringing you to this camp.

Anybody who can work themselves
back from an injury like yours

doesn't lack character
or determination,

but what I need is for you
to bring that character

every day.

Yes, sir.

You won't see any more trouble
out of me.

Good.

What can I do
to get Beto to notice me?

I don't understand why
you're so hung up on my brother.

You could do so much better
than a baseball player.

They're just overgrown
children, I swear.

Beto is nice.

Not the first word I'd use
to describe him.

He's super funny,

and he's so cute.

Okay, I don't need to hear that.

Look, why don't you just
tell him how you feel?

My brother really doesn't have
the intellect for subtlety.

Yeah, but what if
he laughs in my face?

Then I have to see him
here all the time,

and it's just gonna be
uncomfortable.

I honestly think
he'd be lucky to have you.

What about you?

What about me?

You haven't been on a date
in, like, a year.

It hasn't been a year.

I don't think.

See? I'm right.

I'm gonna go check on the food.

Excellent camp today, gentlemen.

We're almost at the midpoint.

Cut day is next week.

You're making my decisions
real tough,

just the way I like it.

All right, get on out of here.

Get yourselves some rest.

Keep the night of cut day
open, y'all.

Yeah, my dad's annual soiree

for the soon-to-be-signed
is coming up.

Soiree, huh?

That's L.A.
for "fancy party."

I know what it means.

Beto, make sure
farm boy takes a shower.

I take no responsibility
for his hygiene.

You don't get cut,
you're invited,

and it's not something
you want to miss,

from a business standpoint
or otherwise.

- Hey, you coming?
- Yeah, in a bit.

Bro, don't you ever get tired?

I'd bet my ride he's a robot.

I'll sleep when I get signed.

I thought I said we were
done for the day, Early.

Actually, I don't
have to be at work

for another couple of hours yet,
so I was gonna see

if Coach Tannen could hit me
some grounders at second.

Hey, Mom.

Hey, there you are.
Haven't heard from you.

I'm sorry.
I've just been super busy.

How's it going?
How are you feeling?

I'm good.
I'm hanging in there.

How's your shoulder?

It's fine.
It's actually... it's good.

Okay, so what's
the scoop, honey?

Big cut day's coming up.

They're cutting almost half
the players at camp.

Well, I think they're crazy
if they cut you.

Well, Mom, I got
to start my shift, so...

Okay, well, you just better
make sure you call me back.

I will. Good night.
I love you, Mom.

I love you more.

Okay. Bye.

Bye.

After you wash the produce,

place them
in these labeled bins.

Always in the same place.
It's all about the details.

With the volume we do,
we can't stand to fall behind.

Ever.

So your dad,

he seems like a pretty cool guy
to work for, huh?

Let's just say working with
family has its challenges.

- Is that, like, a pizza?
- Paella?

Yeah, like a traditional
Mexican pizza.

Sort of. I need some
tomatoes and onions diced,

if you think you can manage.

My dad thinks I'm cut out
to take over the family farm.

What? He doesn't want you
to be some big baseball star?

No, he didn't want me
to come out to L.A.

He doesn't care what I want.

Sometimes it's like
he doesn't even know who I am.

Hold up.

Diced, like this.

Speed is good,

but precision is better.

And try to keep
all your fingers.

I'll make sure to do that.

That's chile de arbol, right?

You're learning.

I told you.
I catch on quick.

Hey.

Hey!

You're gonna break that broom.

Just want to make sure

everything's
completely spotless.

Hey, come over here.
I want you to try something.

I want to see what you think.

This is...

my Asian-inspired
chicken and mole blanco.

I could eat that all day.

What? What's wrong?

I thought mole
was the black stuff.

Traditionally, yes,
but this is my own recipe,

an Asian-fusion mole

made with lychee and rambutan.

No idea what that is,
but it tastes good, so...

There's over 50 ingredients
in that sauce,

each one in perfect balance.

No, sorry.
This is mine.

At Casa Vita, we share.

No.
This is too good to share, okay?

Look, I know you don't
like baseball analogies,

but it is a lot like this sauce.

And the restaurant,
too, in a way.

What are you talking about?

It's all about the details,
and when every player

on the field is dialed in
to their roles,

it all comes together
in a perfect balance.

It's a thing of beauty.

Anyways, you must sell out
of this stuff, huh?

My father would never
let me put this on the menu.

Why not?

A dish like this
doesn't fit his vision

of what Casa Vita is all about.

And because I created it.

Does that sound weird?

No, not at all.

I mean, I love him
and we're really close, but...

But sometimes he gets
in the way of your dreams.

Yeah.

Ramirez, you're next
in the cage!

Get under it!

Nice! Go, let's go!
Loosen up.

Two more, then move
to the next station!

To first. To first!

Tag him! Tag him!

There you go. All the way
around to the cutoff man!

Let me see some gas!

I thought you were my father.

He's not in yet.

What is that?

What do you think?

This is fantastic.

Yeah?

Yeah, but I thought
your dad shot down the idea

of a fusion page on our menu.

This is something
I'm doing on my own.

On your own?

Your own restaurant!

Okay.
You have to promise me.

Promise me
you won't tell anyone,

especially my father.

- Yes!
- Okay, thank you.

- This is so amazing!
- Thank you.

Hey, you done for the day?

Taking a break.

Here's Early's check.

How's it working out with Jesse?

He ain't half the worker
Early is.

Well, he's got
his big cut day soon.

He sounds really good
on the phone.

He asked about you again.

He doesn't need
any advice from me.

Oh, Cliff, you're his father.

Marlene, please don't
expect me to cheer him on

while he cripples himself
over some pipe dream.

I can't do it.

You remember when he was born?

When it was our dream
to have a farm

and something of our own?

Early just wants
something of his own too.

No, you're still over it.
You're lunging.

Head down, eyes down,
through the ball.

Dude, you tattooed that one.

Helping Beto with
his breaking ball?

Yeah, he's coming along.

How long you guys staying?

Not for very much longer,

unless you want to let me
pull my truck out here

and hit the headlights.

Early, I've seen your truck.

No way I'm gonna let you
park it on my field.

Whoa-ho-ho!

Hey, man, coach just
bagged on you, bro.

All right, one more.

- Here you guys are.
- Thank you.

She will be over
with your drinks.

- Thanks.
- Thanks.

That looks so good.

Here you go.
Are you guys ready to order?

All right, people, keep it up.
We got this.

Ernie, where are my specials?

- Right here.
- Thank you very much.

How are we doing
out there, Nikki?

Happy people, empty plates.

That's what I like to hear.

Early.

Hey.
Did I forget something?

No, just your hat.

Thank you.

My brain must be fried.

You've been doing a good job.

I wasn't sure
about you at first,

but I really appreciate
your hard work.

I appreciate the opportunity.

And the free food.

Hey...

Would you maybe want
to go out with me sometime?

Excuse me?

I'd just like the chance
to get to know you, that's all.

I make my run
to the Mercado in the morning.

The Mercado?

- Market.
- Okay, all right.

To purchase some ingredients
for the restaurant.

Okay. Great, yeah,
tomorrow's perfect.

No practice tomorrow.

But it's not a date.

Technically you're working,
assisting me.

Got it. Tomorrow.

Tomorrow.

Good night.

You want to let me
in on the joke?

When we were kids,
we used to tell Beto

that monsters lived
down the alley.

And then somebody would
always hide in the dumpster,

and then when he'd go by it,
they'd jump out and scream.

Beto would run home
crying to Papa

every single time
until he was about 14.

You're his older sister.

Aren't you supposed to be
protecting him from monsters?

You don't have any siblings?

- Only child.
- I can tell.

Beto's a total daddy's boy.

My mother passed away
when I was eight.

Beto was only four.

I don't know what
I'd do without my mom.

What?

Nothing. It's...

It's sweet, that's all.

They have the best
fresh produce in town.

Here, bag these for me.

- Thank you.
- De nada.

- Thanks.
- Aquí.

Nervous about cut day?

So now you want
to talk about baseball.

Not at all.

What do you have
against the game?

It's just always been
shoved down my throat, you know.

It's all Papa and Beto
ever talk about.

And now my brother's about to
pass up a serious scholarship

to a good college because
he'd rather play ball,

like he's gonna be
some big star,

the pride and joy,

and I'm just there.

I honestly don't see why
you all like it so much.

For me, being on that field,

it's like having your heart
thumping so fast,

it's about to burst
out of your chest

but being completely at peace
at the same time.

So why doesn't your father
want it for you?

He's just scared.

- Scared?
- That I'll get hurt.

What, like hit by a pitch?

No.

I had a pretty bad shoulder
injury a few years back.

He thinks if I get hurt,

I won't be able to play baseball

and that I won't be able
to help him on the farm either.

But what he doesn't understand

is that this is my life.

I want to show you
something on the way back.

What is this place?

"Ariana's Mexican Fusion."

My restaurant.

My father made it pretty clear
he wouldn't support me, so...

I'm doing it on my own.

Fusion, so that's like
the Asian mole stuff, right?

Fusion cuisine is a blending
of culinary traditions...

different styles and cultures.

Here's the menu.

To me, it's part of the evolution
of the culinary arts,

how traditions continue to grow
by influencing each other.

This would allow me
to be creative in my kitchen

every day

and to establish
my own voice as a chef.

I'm impressed.

But won't you have to tell
your dad eventually?

I'm waiting till
I close my investors,

but it's basically a done deal.

And I put all my savings
into it, so...

I'm all in.

Thank you for showing me.

And trusting me.

- We should get back.
- Yeah.

Yeah.

Come on!

It's gonna take some...

- Hey!
- You're out there.

Knock this one
straight out of the gate!

Gentlemen.

Congratulations.
You all worked very hard.

You played the right way.

Now, whether or not
you made the cut,

whether or not you're gonna
continue with us on

here at camp, I want you to know

that I am proud of each
and every one of you.

I wish you the very best.

Yeah, here we go.

That's me, baby. I'm in.
Damon, where you at?

Right there.

Awesome! I got in.

Early?

Congrats, man.

Sweet!

- Just give me a second.
- All right.

- Nice, man.
- Yeah!

Early.

All right, hey, let's do it.

I want you to know, if I could
keep one more player,

it'd be you.

You don't have
to say anything, Coach.

Nah, I mean it.
You were my toughest cut.

Heart and leadership,
you're top of the list.

It's just, after talking
with the medical staff,

I just really wonder
if your shoulder could hold up

to a pro baseball grind.

Thanks for
the opportunity, Coach.

Oh, come on.

It's true.

Hey, farm boy, think fast.

Congratulations, man.

Nah.
Congratulations to you.

What are you talking about?

I just talked to coach.

Looks like you're back in.

Come on,
don't mess with me, man,

not today, come on.

I'm not messing.

You're back in.
I gave up my spot.

You what? Why?

You okay with riding around
in broken-down buses?

Sleeping in roadside motels
between minor league ballparks

for four, five years before
getting to the Bigs?

Sounds like
heaven in a jar, yeah.

Maybe to you.

Me?

I'll take the hotel suite
and the private jet.

The agent life.

I've decided to go work
with my dad.

Yeah.

Easy, easy, easy.

You act like
I'm doing you a favor.

I'm still gonna be making
seven figures

while you're floating around
playing for crowds of hundreds

in places like Portland
or Des Moines.

Hey, Des Moines
is a top-notch city.

Yeah, I'll take
your word for it.

I'm glad you're
not leaving, Nebraska.

You still gotta show me
how to hit that breaking ball.

For real, man.
You're made for this.

I can't thank you enough, man.

Just play your heart out.

That's all the thanks I need.

Yeah, man.

I won't let you down.

If I can have your attention,

a toast to my baby boy
taking his next step

on the way to the Big Leagues.

And to Early, a great new
addition to our familia,

who made the team as well.

Made it by the skin of my teeth.

Hey, say hi to Alice.
Yep.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

Hey, bro.

We'd better get to the party.

I got a tie for you.

I'm actually scheduled
to work tonight.

You're kidding me, right?

Well, I could check
with my supervisor.

Just this once, I suppose.

Well, now I'll really never
have a chance with Beto.

Baseball stars only want
to date supermodels.

- Thanks, boss.
- All right.

Hey, what's up, man?

Try not to put the clutch
down all the way

cause it might get stuck.

Dude, they're professionals.

Right. Okay.
There you go. Thank you.

And please just try to be
smooth for my sake, okay?

Okay.

Are you coming, or what?

Yeah, I'll meet you in there.
Just give me a minute.

Gentlemen, can I offer you
something to drink?

Thank you.

You're welcome, sir.

Quite the party.

Gentlemen,
glad you could make it.

This is my dad, Dante Thompson.

Mr. Thompson.

Thank you for having us, sir.

See anybody you recognize?

Looks like half
the All-Star team is here.

That's because
half the All-Star team

- are my dad's clients.
- Well, that may be,

but tonight, this party
is all about you guys.

Here's to your continued
success and prosperity.

I just want to say, sir,

what Damon did
for me today is...

His heart hasn't
been in it since high school.

Dad.

He just needed to get a taste
of what it's really like,

the level of commitment it takes
to be a pro ballplayer.

Make him a better agent someday.

All I know is, I gotta be
on that field as much as I can.

See? That's it.

All you have to want to do is
eat, drink, and sleep baseball.

I prefer to eat sushi
and drink champagne.

I've always had more of a
proclivity for the business side

myself, but I do look forward
to working closely

with my number one son.

As for you, Early,
from what Damon and Taylor

- have been telling me...
- My ears are ringing.

Why don't you let Taylor
show you around?

Get yourself something to eat.

Yes, sir.

Just got an interesting
voice mail.

That was Early.

What, did he get cut?

No, he didn't.

Really?

Yeah, he's celebrating at some
big, ritzy mansion right now,

and... and he's gonna be playing
for the Big League scouts

at the end of the month.

Good.

It's so impressive.

I'm happy for him.

Really, I am.

I know it's a long way to go

before he signs any pro ball
contracts, that's all.

And all he ever wants
is for you to be behind him.

Don't you think I want to?

I think if you did, you would.

Marlene, you just don't get it.

With his hopes up high
like this...

He is stepping into a world
where they chew you up

and they spit you out
like you're nothing.

And this is how I think
he's really gonna get hurt.

I'm not talking about
his shoulder anymore.

I don't know.

Ooh, rabbit food.

I was thinking the same thing.

Here, try this
little protein blast.

Open up.

Can I tell you something?

I have big plans for you.

I don't know the first thing
about any of this stuff.

What stuff?

Just all the business,
the money, the deals,

anything that happens
off the field.

That's why I'm here.

Better not let Blake Barlow
get to you.

When you get to the Bigs, he's
gonna be there waiting for you.

You do realize I just
almost got cut, right?

The coach was just spooked
by your injury.

But you're young.

I've seen players
come back from way worse

and go on to have
lucrative careers.

The sky's the limit for
what we could do together,

Early Lindstrom.

Guys, can you give us a minute?

Take a break. Yeah.

What's this?

I was gonna tell you.

Tell me what?

It's my menu

for my restaurant.

What? Restaurant?

What are you talking about?

I rented some space,
and I purchased some equipment.

And I got some
investors on board,

and I plan to open
sometime next month.

How could you just go out
and do something like this

without... without a word?

I tried.

I tried so many times, Papa.

And all I ever got from you was,
"You're not ready."

Because I'm right!
You're not!

Who are these investors?

Do you have a lawyer?
What have you signed?

I know what I'm doing.

Believe it or not,
I can actually do something,

on my own, without you
hovering over my shoulder.

You betrayed me.

Yes!
Way to go, farm boy!

I got it, here.

Thank you.

Okay, I'll go get the rest.

Thanks for all
your hard work, Early.

It's been a real pleasure
having you here.

Thanks, Chef Rodrigo.

Have a good night.

Everything okay?

My father...

he...

Hey.

Hey, it's okay.

It's not.

It's okay.

He hates me.

I've never seen him
upset like that before.

Hey, have some faith, okay?

He'll come around.

It's just gonna take him
some time, that's all.

Yeah.

Okay.

I'm gonna finish up, all right?

I don't know where you get
all this energy from.

I didn't have much left in the
tank when camp got out today,

but I found some more energy
when I thought about coming here

and seeing you.

Forget the broom.

If you have some more energy,

let's put it to better use.

Come on.

I am not a dancer.

Everyone can dance.

No, no, no, no, not this guy.

You're athletic.
You can do it.

Just relax.

See?

Okay.

All right.

Okay.

I'm sorry.
I am awful at this.

See, a normal slow dance,
that, I can do.

Gonna show me some moves?

I wouldn't go that far.

Two bags, chile de arbol.

And one bag each, chile guero,

ancho, and pasilla.

You got it, boss.

You're an expert now.

I had the best teacher.

Kind of cute too.

Maybe one day, I can show you
how to rope a steer,

hit a curveball.

Maybe the steer,
but no baseball.

You got to keep an open mind.

Did you ever go see
your brother play?

Are you kidding me?

My dad used to make me go
to every single one of his games

growing up.
I got so burnt out.

Well, maybe one day,
you can come see me play.

If you're lucky.

Postcard for your parents?

Yeah. I'd like to ask them
one more time

if they might come out
for the big game.

Then why don't you?

Cause it'll never happen.

My dad, he's just...

This one right here.

That's my city.

Thanks.

De nada.

You all right?

Yeah, I just...

What?

I just feel lucky, that's all.

All right, turn it quick.

That's right.

No, no, no, no, no.
You're still whipping it

like you're throwing
from the hole in short.

I mean, there's a reason
I moved you to second.

I thought it was just cause
camp was loaded with shortstops.

You got a better chance
of making it at second.

That's where you can
maximize your potential.

So you think I have potential?

Not really.

Coach, I...

I really appreciate you
doing this for me.

All I'm doing is talking.

So what do you think?

It's gorgeous.

Totally.

This is so exciting.

I'm thinking about putting,
like, five tables

along this wall here.

It's gonna be so great, Ari.

It really is, but...

What?

How's it going with your dad?

He won't even look at me.

It's getting late.

Investors should be here by now.

Maybe you should give'em a call.

Yeah, I'll try again.

Hey, it's Ariana.

Hey, Ariana.

I'm here. Are you guys
still coming down today?

No, I'm sorry.
We can't make it.

We checked the quarterlies,
and it's too risky.

What?

Yeah.
I hope you understand.

We really wish you the best.
Good luck, okay?

Okay. Yeah, yeah.

No, it's fine.

Okay. Bye.

Thank you.

Hey, what's up?

They're out.

They're backing out of the deal.

They said I was
too much of a risk.

Ari?

Hey.

What are you doing here?

Came to see your little brother
play, like the old times?

I just dropped by to see you.

Where's Early?

You and Mr. Nebraska

got a little something,
something going on?

It's all right.
You can tell me.

I promise I won't beat him up.

Ari?

Hey, are you okay?

I'm fine.

Hey, Lindstrom.

I've been looking for you.

Taylor, hey.

We were just doing some
extra work in the cages.

That's my number one
hardworking prospect.

Did you work up an appetite?

I'm always hungry.

Well, how about I give you
a break from that dorm food?

Chicken and waffles on me?

I'm actually
working tonight, so...

- Working?
- At Casa Vita.

Beto's family's restaurant.

Yeah, I'm helping out
in the kitchen.

That is so adorable.

Well, I think I'm worth
more than minimum wage,

but I'll take a rain check,
just this once.

Don't disappoint me again.

Hey! Wait!

Wait, Ariana.
It's not what you...

think.

Ariana.

Can I talk to you, please?

- I'm busy.
- Just give me a chance.

- I said I'm busy.
- It's not what it looked like.

- I swear.
- I really don't...

I really don't want
to talk to you right now.

Okay.

What are you doing here?

I was just trying
to talk to Ariana.

I'm pretty sure she
doesn't want to talk to you.

- Come on, man.
- Maybe you better go.

Yo, I didn't even know
what was happening.

Seriously, don't mess
with my sister.

What's going on, guys?

I was just trying to talk
to Ariana for a minute.

Yeah, Early, maybe
now's not a great time.

All right, well, then I'll...

I'll go start my shift.

Better yet, why don't you
just take the night off?

I don't know what's happening
between the two of you,

but I-I just...

Everything...

I really don't want
to talk about it, Papa.

But I know that...

I don't like to see you sad.

It's not just Early.

Talk to me.

Que Paso, Mija?

My investors pulled out.

Everything is ruined.

- Hey, Mom.
- Hey.

I just wanted you to know

we got the pretty postcard.

Los Angeles is beautiful.

Yeah.

Everything all right?

I messed up, Mom,

with someone I care about.

I didn't mean to,
but I hurt her.

So what are you gonna do?

I don't know what I can do.

Well, I've never known you
to give up on something before,

especially not something
you care about.

So any more thoughts about
you and dad coming out here?

I can really use you
at the game.

I know.
It's just your father, he's...

It's okay.

No, you know what?
It's not okay,

because we really want to come.

But, you know, it's hard for him
to just up and leave somehow.

Yeah, I know.
I know. I get it.

It's fine, Mom.

I love you, Mom.

Bye.

Nice cut, lover boy.

Making this too easy today,
redneck.

Come back any time, sweetheart.

Beto, come on, man.

I don't need a ride from you.

Would you knock it off
and just talk to me?

Why?

There is nothing going on
with Taylor and I,

nothing, all right?

Whatever, man.
You hurt my sister, bro.

That can't happen.

Ariana is one of the smartest,
most amazing people

I have ever met.

I'd never do anything
on purpose to hurt her.

You know me better than that.

Do I?

I hope so.

And I hope you believe me
when I say

I truly care about her.

All right, all right.

I don't need all gooey details.

Seriously, man, I got to find
a way to make it up to her.

I know my sister.

You got to give her some time.

Well?

Well, what?

You've been promising me a trip

for nine, ten years now.

We'll get around to it.

And when we do, we won't
be going to Los Angeles.

He said he needs us.

He made it pretty clear
when he left here, Marlene,

that he didn't want
or need anything from me.

Oh, my... you are two
of the most stubborn men

I've ever known in my life!

You see, honey...

It really...
it breaks my heart.

It breaks my heart to see
you two at odds like this.

Marlene!

Hey, can you please hear me out?

It's my own fault.
I should have expected as much.

No, Ariana.

There's a reason
I don't date baseball players.

Ariana, it wasn't like that.

So who was that woman?

Just some junior agent.

She's been talking about taking
me on as her first client.

And apparently she wants
something from you in return.

Yeah, I guess.

Hey, maybe she does,
but I don't.

I can't do this, Early.

Not now. This isn't the only
thing I have on my plate.

What's going on?

My investors backed out.

I spent all my savings,

and I maxed out a credit card.

I just signed a year's lease
of that space.

My father was right, and now...

He knows?

Hey, there's always a way.

No, Early.

Not always.

Chef.

Early, glad you're back.

Do you have a minute?

Sure. Come on in.

I know it's probably
no secret at this point

how I feel about Ariana.

I just want to apologize
for any part I had

in upsetting your daughter.

I had no intention of doing so.

You and your family
have been so good to me and...

I respect that.

Thank you.

But I think
I'm just as much to blame

as anyone else is.

She's so much
like her mother was.

Beto's been easy for me.

I mean, what you see is
pretty much what you get,

but with Ari,

it's like she's always
a step ahead of me,

except I don't realize it
till it's too late.

I know it's none of my business,

but I think deep down,

she just wants
to earn your respect.

She has my respect.

And I'm sure that's true,

but I don't think she'll
ever truly know that

until she achieves
something on her own.

Thanks, Chef.

Hey.

Hey.

How you doing?

What's that?

It's paella.

Mexican paella.

I made it using your recipe,

and it's delicious.

Why?
Why would you do that?

Because I'm a stubborn man.

Yeah.

Well, based on my over 30 years
of professional experience

in this, I've come
to the conclusion

that Ariana's Mexican Fusion

is gonna be a huge success.

What are you talking about?

You're back in business.

I don't know what to say.

You deserve this.

Come here.

I believe in you.

Game day, Nebraska,
in case you haven't heard.

You coming or what?

Yeah, one second.

Hey, aren't you coming?

I don't think so.
I got lots to do.

You go.
Give Beto my best.

It's his big day.

Beto will be fine.

I'm not talking about Beto.

Let's get out there
and do it today.

Yeah, I know.
Just keep your eyes down.

Just got to stay focused.
If we stay focused,

- we'll be all right.
- Go get em, Beto!

- Hey.
- Hey, there he is.

Showed up.

Gracias, Papa.

Come here.

Thanks, Papa.

Good luck.

I'll be cheering for you.

- Thanks.
- Early,

I'm wishing nothing but the best
for you out there today.

Thanks, Chef.

All right, guys.

- Hi.
- Hi.

Hey, you coming?
Warm-up's in five.

Yeah, just a minute, man.
I'll be there.

So finally came
to a baseball game.

You could say I was persuaded.

- Is that...
- Yeah, yeah, come and meet em.

- Hi, baby.
- Hi.

Pop.

Quite a crowd here, huh?

Yeah, it sure is.

You go out there today, son,

and you show'em what
you're made of, okay?

Thanks, Dad.

Guys, this is Ariana.

Ariana, this is
Cliff and Marlene Lindstrom.

Hi. Early's told me
so much about you.

Yes. I've heard a thing
or two about you as well.

- Now I see why.
- Mom, come on.

Would you two like to come sit
with me and my father?

- Yeah, definitely.
- Yeah, great.

Okay, I'll see you guys
after the game, all right?

- Okay, good luck, honey.
- Good luck.

- Good luck. Go get em.
- Good luck, Early.

Good afternoon, everyone,

and welcome
to the Pacific Baseball Camp

East-West Challenge game.

Here's your home team
for this year's game,

the West in orange.

You're in for an exciting
afternoon of baseball today,

because the very best young
players from around the country

are gathered here
in the California sun

to show the world
and the pro scouts...

Go, Early!

How six weeks of intense
workouts sharpened their games.

Each player has received
coaching specifically tailored

to accentuate their strengths,

and you'll see the payoff
here today

in competition that is as close
to the professional level

as can be found outside
the Big League parks

around the U.S.

So sit back and enjoy the game.

It may be your last chance
to see these players

without paying for a ticket.

Come on, Early!

Come on!

- All right!
- Got it. Got it!

Come on. Come on.

There you go.
Let's see some hustle.

Play ball!

And we're under way.

Here's Mark Coacher
on the mound for the West.

He's a 19-year-old
out of Haddon Heights

and the rarest of pitchers.

True knuckleballer.

Strike one!

Attaboy!
Nice pitch, kid!

And it's
a one hopper to second base.

Early Lindstrom makes the catch

and throws out the runner
at first.

- One away.
- Yes!

That's it.

Bottom of the second,

and we remain scoreless
with two men on for the West.

Let's go!

- Come on, Early!
- Come on, Early!

Come on, Early!

At bat is Early Lindstrom.

Come on, Early!
You got this!

You can do it!

Show'em what you got!

Here's the windup.

Strike!

Early swings
behind the fastball.

- Come on. Come on, Early!
- Come on, Early!

Okay, babe.
Come on! Go!

Come on, Early!
I know you can hit this guy!

It's all right.
Find a way.

Barlow shakes off
the first signal.

Takes the second.

And here's the pitch.

Nice shot. Base hit.

Runner advances.

And the center fielder
has the ball,

but run will score.

Yes!

And Lindstrom
has a stand-up double.

Yeah! It's two RBIs, baby!

Attaboy. Attaboy.

Top of the third, and
the West is up 2 to nothing.

All right, now.

All right, guys.
Come on!

Ready to go!

The runner's going.

Here's Beto
with a throw to second.

You're out!

And Lindstrom
tagged him for the out.

What a throw.

Two away
in the top of the fifth,

and Coacher has really let
the inning get away from him

as Blake Barlow
steps up to the plate

with the bases loaded.

Strike him out!

And Barlow really
got ahold of that one,

and it's outta here!

Blake Barlow
has ripped a grand slam

to put the East on top, 4 to 3.

You just don't see pitchers
do that every day.

Yes, sir, Blake.

Yes, sir.

Here we are
in the bottom of the seventh

with the East holding on
to a 4-to-3 lead.

Let's go.

Come on, Early!

Next up, Early Lindstrom

with two outs and one man on.

This is the kind
of pressure cooker

that tests
a young player's mettle.

This late in the game,
and Barlow still looks fresh.

The windup.

And Lindstrom really
brushed that fastball,

and it's gone!

That's what I'm talking about!

Way to go, Early!

All right, two more outs.

Let's do this, kid.
Let's wrap this up.

Top of the ninth,
and the East is battling

to tie this game up
with a man at first

and a full count for the batter.

Lindstrom fields it.

Steps on the bag.

And throws for the double play.

And the game is over!

Thanks, everyone,
for coming out today.

And we'll see you next year.

Mrs. Lindstrom.
Mr. Lindstrom.

Hi. Coach Willis.

Ariana.

Well, folks, you got yourself
a first-rate young man in there.

First-rate ballplayer,
first-rate person.

It's been a real pleasure
coaching him

these past six weeks.

Thank you...

How is he?

Why don't you go on and see him?

Honey, what did they say?

I gotta get an MRI
when the swelling goes down,

but the trainer said
it was pretty clear.

The rotator cuff popped again,

and he said the end of the bone

tore up the labrum,

and there's likely
cartilage damage too.

What does that mean?

He said with surgery
and hard work,

I'll get use of my arm back.

But...

I'm never playing pro ball,
so...

I should have listened
to you, Dad.

You were right.

No, I wasn't right
about anything, Early.

You followed your dream.
You gave it your best shot, boy.

You never have to live
with any regrets.

And I'm very proud of you, son.

Mom and I are gonna
wait outside. Honey.

Okay.

Well, at least you got
to see me play once.

You were unbelievable.

It's too bad I'll never
get on a field again

when it counts.

You are really trying
to get me signed, aren't you?

- Sorry, man.
- Yeah.

- Tough luck, bro.
- That's okay.

That's what you
have to do to learn,

to get better.
This is the time.

When you're in the Bigs,
that is not the time to do that.

Thanks, guys.
I'm gonna miss you.

Looks like I'm gonna be signing

with the Iowa Farmers
Association.

I'm heading home tonight.

Hey, Early.

It's a tough break, man.

It's not right, man.
You belong on a baseball field.

Yeah.

Not in the cards.

I'll grab it.

Yeah, thank you.

All right. All right,
see you, guys.

All right, Coach.
Thanks, Coach.

Lindstrom.

Hey, Coach. I just wanted
to thank you again

for everything
you've done for me.

Well, you can thank me
by sticking around.

Sir?

I've been sitting
on a job offer,

head coaching position
at the university

right here in Los Angeles.

I just now accepted it.

That's a big camp.
Congrats.

I could use a hitting coach.

Pardon?

How'd you like to join
my staff, Early?

I...

You can sleep on it.
No reason to rush your decision.

I'm... I'm sorry, Coach.
I appreciate the offer.

And I'm flattered,
but I'm needed back home.

Fair enough.

Early.

You've made quite an opportunity
here for yourself, son.

You need me on the farm.
It's okay. I'm okay with it.

No. No,
you need to do this.

We'll be fine.

Yeah.

It's a deal.

Hey, Beto, throwing
this big party for you.

The least you could do is help.

I'm busy.

It looks like you're texting.

I'm busy texting.

Enough, you two.
Beto, she's right.

Why don't you help Nikki set up
the silverware, at least?

Listen, the more, the merrier.
We're celebrating you,

professional baseball player.

Have you heard from Early?

No. Last I knew,
he was with his parents.

I think he's planning
to drive them back to Nebraska.

- Iowa.
- That's what I meant.

When? Not tonight.

Dance with me?

You've been practicing.

I catch on quick.

Looks like they're doing well.

They're so cute.

You're cute.

I know you said you never want
to date a baseball player,

so how about a baseball coach?

What?

Coach Willis offered me
a job on his staff,

right here in L.A.

Did you accept?

A chance to work in baseball
and stay here?

Hold on to the two things
I love most?

Did you say two things?

RIP-FIXES-SYNC
by VaVooM