Play Along

Content Warning: The source material and this guide briefly reference death and mental health issues.

Content Warning: Both the source material and this guide include descriptions of death, misogyny, and mental health challenges such as anxiety and panic attacks.

The prologue begins three years in the past. At this point, 28-year-old Isaiah Rhodes plays shortstop for the Windy City Warriors. On the first day of the season, which is also the anniversary of his mother’s death, he hides in the always deserted women’s restroom just to find a bit of quiet. While leaving the restroom, he overhears the team doctor, Dr. Frederick, telling a woman named Kennedy that she cannot be hired as a doctor, because she listed her name as “Kenny” on her application. Instead, he offers her a position as an athletic trainer but warns her to stay away from the players. Kennedy, who is eager to work in professional sports despite the gender discrimination, is considering the offer.

Hiding in the restroom again, Isaiah listens as Kennedy, now believing herself to be alone, gives herself a pep talk and calls her stepbrother, who is a baseball player. Isaiah introduces himself to Kennedy, sharing his reason for hiding, and offers his support.