Ep 13. Now Pitching, Sam Malone

In "Now Pitching, Sam Malone," the thirteenth episode of Cheers' first season, Sam's old friend and former Red Sox teammate, Dave Richards, comes to visit the bar. Dave is a pitcher who had a promising career, but an injury forced his retirement. Sam is excited to see his old friend and asks Dave to pitch during an upcoming charity baseball game. However, when Coach sees Dave's natural talent, he convinces him to go through therapy and try to get back to pitching professionally. Sam doesn't want to push his friend, but he also can't resist the chance to help a friend out.

Meanwhile, Diane becomes intrigued by Dave's good looks and charm and starts to flirt with him. This makes Sam uneasy, as he feels protective of Diane. However, Diane assures Sam that she's just having fun and is not serious about Dave. The tension between Sam and Diane grows throughout the episode, as both try to navigate their feelings towards each other and towards Dave.

As Dave begins his therapy, he starts to improve rapidly, and it becomes clear that he might be able to make a comeback in baseball. However, when Sam discovers that the medication Dave is taking will prevent him from having children, he becomes concerned. Sam had always dreamed of having a family and doesn't want his friend to make the same mistake that he did in sacrificing his personal life for the sake of his career.

In the end, Sam confronts Dave and convinces him to prioritize his personal life over his career. Dave decides to quit baseball and focus on starting a family. Diane is disappointed that her brief fling with Dave has come to an end, but Sam is relieved that his friend won't sacrifice his personal life for baseball.

"Now Pitching, Sam Malone" is a classic episode of Cheers that showcases the tight-knit community of the bar. It also highlights the show's central themes of friendship and personal sacrifice. The episode does an excellent job of balancing humor with more poignant moments, especially as Sam confronts Dave about his medication.

The guest appearance of Dave Richards adds some excitement to the episode and provides a glimpse into Sam's past. His character is likable and sympathetic, making it easy to root for him throughout the episode. The chemistry between the three main characters, Sam, Diane, and Coach, is as strong as ever in this episode, and their interactions make for some of the show's funniest moments.

Overall, "Now Pitching, Sam Malone" is an excellent addition to the first season of Cheers and is a prime example of the show's ability to combine humor and heart.