Danny's identity
Danny is half-Mexican, half-white, but he feels uncomfortable with both identities. One would expect someone with a dual heritage to feel more connected to their heritage and to other diverse groups. However, for Danny, his identity heightens his feelings of isolation and displacement.
Danny's talent
Readers know that Danny is an incredibly talented baseball player with a bright future ahead of him if he sets his mind to be successful. However, Danny is down on himself and doesn't believe that he has what it takes to be a successful pitcher in baseball.
Danny
Danny is a talented baseball player, a sport that is traditionally a symbol of American identity. However, despite his skills in baseball, he nevertheless struggles to feel accepted in America because of his Mexican heritage and struggles to integrate into the United States.
School
While he's at his predominately white school, Danny is seen as being too Mexican. However, amongst his family, Danny is considered to be too white and not Mexican enough, illuminating one of the most ironic features of his life.
