[X's and O's]

Hindsight is 20/20. If the pitcher the coach brings in comes in and K's the next 2 hitters, you would say he was a genius. The likely scenario is the Burton had reached his pitch limit or was above it. In that case, it would be better for Burton to come out and not risk hurting his arm over 2 more meaningless outs. Yes, it was a big game, but I think you would rather the kid finish the game in the district, region, or state than the Hazard Invitational mid-season.

It could also be possible that a section of the lineup was coming up that was on him pretty good. Maybe Coach leaves him in and the top of the lineup, who has already seen him 3 times, gets a hit, or walked, and then a home run. You would then say he left Burton in too long - bad coaching decision... blah, blah, blah. Coach made the decision he thought was right. It didn't work out.

TOTALLY AGREE!!!! Any kids arm is more important than any game.