The First Out

Based on my 1st Prize Winner for Best Screenplay at the 2009 Rhode Island International Film Festival.

"Brokeback Mountain" meets "Bull Durham". Brad Hawley realizes his dream of playing professional baseball when the New Orleans Breakers draft him in the first round, but Brad has a secret: he is gay. The homophobic culture of professional baseball prompts him to hide his sexuality. Brad speaks ambiguously of his lover, Taylor, in order to maintain the pretense that he is straight.

The Breakers assign Brad to their farm club, the Bristol Wolves, where his on-field skills make him an instant hit with his teammates. Handsome and athletic, Brad also gains the attention of the young ladies in town, particularly that of Ashley Cosgrove. Ashley's advances make it easier for Brad to keep his secret until she answers his cell phone and discovers that Taylor is not female.

Ashley helps keep Brad's secret until Taylor shows up at the ballpark. Sports media swarm the town, thrusting Brad into the national spotlight, and are forcing him to come out. The news creates chaos in the locker room as he is alienated from his teammates. Brad's homophobic manager wants him gone; fans and opposing ball players taunt him. Most importantly, it puts a strain on his relationship with his once proud father, who distances himself from Brad.

After his play falters and an on-field brawl brings a league and manager-imposed suspension, Brad contemplates quitting. His only allies on the team are MLB All-Star first baseman Steven Chase (who is finishing up a 50 game steroid-related suspension) and pitching coach Derek Griffin. They support Brad and convince the Breakers organization to do the same.

While serving his suspension, Brad meets supporters in a gay bar, who tell him what he means to their community. When Brad returns to the team, he embraces his sexuality and welcomes his place as a role model.