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At the tender age of five, Hunter Austin experiences his first professional baseball game as a wide-eyed fan. The energy and excitement of the stadium fill him with a sense of awe and wonder. In that moment, he proclaims to those around him in the bleachers that he will one day receive The Call, play baseball on TV, and have his face on baseball cards. Despite the laughter of the crowd, Hunter's belief in his dream remains unshakable.

The Dream Begins

FICTION

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Baseball has always held a special place in the hearts of young players who dream of one day stepping onto the field of the Major Leagues. The book "The Call: To Major League Baseball" explores this dream through the eyes of a young boy named Hunter Austin. Written with emotional depth and authenticity, this novel takes readers on a journey of hope and determination as Hunter strives to achieve his ultimate goal.

However, the road to achieving his dream is far from easy. Hunter faces numerous challenges and setbacks along the way. His own father, perhaps unintentionally, becomes a source of doubt and discouragement. "You're too small, too weak, and not good enough," his father tells him. These words, spoken by someone he looks up to, threaten to extinguish Hunter's unwavering faith in himself and his abilities.

Yet, Hunter refuses to let the doubts of others define him. "The Call" delves deep into the challenges faced by an overlooked and unappreciated second son. Despite ongoing adversity, criticism, and rejection, Hunter remains steadfast in his pursuit of his dream. He is determined to prove not only to others but also to himself that he is capable of achieving greatness.

Throughout his journey, Hunter finds solace and support in the form of a loving woman who believes in him wholeheartedly. Her unwavering faith in his abilities becomes a source of strength for Hunter, giving him the determination to practice with purpose and play with passion. With her by his side, he is able to keep the dreams of his youth alive and continue his relentless pursuit of The Call.

What sets "The Call" apart is its unique blend of imagination and fact. The novel shares the field with historical figures from the game of baseball, intertwining fiction with reality. This mixture of historical fiction transports readers to another time and place, whether it be a real or imagined world. Through this creative approach, the author Doug Ernest brings a sense of authenticity and depth to Hunter Austin's story.

Doug Ernest's own experiences, ranging from high school and college baseball to playing on the Fort Bragg Army Base team, provide credibility and complexity to Hunter's journey. As a Chaplain's Assistant, Congressional journalist, and radio Disc Jockey, the author's varied background has inspired his ability to construct an engaging narrative that resonates with readers.

At its core, "The Call: To Major League Baseball" is an emotionally poignant novel that illustrates the power of living a purpose-driven life. It is a story of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of one's dreams against all odds. Through Hunter Austin's journey, readers are reminded that with unwavering belief in oneself and the support of those who truly care, anything is possible.

As we embark on this captivating coming-of-age story, we are invited to join Hunter on his quest for The Call, where he will not only discover the true meaning of success but also inspire us to chase our own dreams with unwavering determination.

The Author’s Journey

Doug Ernest’s own experiences, ranging from high school and college baseball to a successful career in the Federal Government, provide credibility and complexity to Hunter’s story. His varied background, which includes work as a Chaplain’s Assistant, Congressional journalist, and radio Disc Jockey, has inspired his ability to construct an engaging narrative.

Doug’s passion for baseball has lasted a lifetime. He began playing baseball in the little leagues and finished in college. Doug enjoys watching baseball on TV, playing fantasy baseball, and reading all the baseball news he can get his hands on. He and his wife, Virginia, live in Virginia Beach with their dog, Coco. Doug is the proud father of two grown daughters as well as the grandfather of six grandchildren.

Inspired by a real-life baseball game in May 2018, where rookie David Hess made his Major League debut with the Baltimore Orioles, Doug delves into the personal and intense reactions of Hess’s family and friends in the stands. This pivotal moment became the catalyst for “The Call to Major League Baseball,” as Doug sought to explore the sacrifices, challenges, and triumphs of reaching the pinnacle of the sport.

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