“If you can’t get to first base who cares about sharks.”
You can get to first base with a shark.
Having a shark with you while trying to get to first base may not make your effort successful with the one who owns first base, second base, and home.
Once on first base with a shark, the shark will likely help you stay on first base.
Be careful of those who welcome the shark home. Yo may not want them to let you get to first base, second base, or home.