Collision

"I'm counting on you, Ryuhei!"

Masu Shinichiro, returning to the bench, exchanged a deep look with Kojima. Kojima nodded deeply in return.

"Men!! They all have... their own worlds!

If I had to compare it... they are the stars streaking across the sky!!!

Hit it, Sen~dou~!!

Sen~dou~!! Sen~dou~!!"

As the showdown began, the singing from Seidou's stands gradually grew louder.

Komaru cautiously took his lead off the base, ready to make a surprise move at any moment.

Komaru understood very clearly that if he reached second base, then even if Sendou was intentionally walked, the chances of the following batters bringing him home would rise sharply.

Seikou's battery naturally noticed his little movements as well, but their main attention could only be focused on the batter right now.

To keep a pickoff throw from distracting the pitcher, as long as Komaru did not make any reckless moves, they were willing to allow that lead.

"One out, runner on first, batter cleanup, Sendou-kun!

The first showdown between the cleanup hitters and aces of both teams!

The crucial first pitch... thrown!"

"Psh!"

"Whoosh!"

"Smack!"

"Ball!"

"The first pitch was a low outside fastball, but unfortunately it was clearly outside the strike zone!"

"The height is finally getting under control!

Next, an outside slider!

It doesn't matter if it becomes a ball. Make it nastier!"

Seeing Masu's signals, Kojima nodded.

Then he straightened up and checked Komaru's situation once more.

"Whew! Sendou-kun!" Komaru let out a soft breath and, unnoticed by anyone, lowered his center of gravity even further.

Komaru knew that Sendou was not as patient today as usual. He would not remain unmoved through several pitches like he had in the previous game.

As long as the pitch was not too far outside the strike zone, Komaru would try to run.