"If our goal is to reach the top of the nation, then leveling up in every aspect is necessary!
Personal challenges:
At the start...
Don't let runners get on base!
Set-position pitching! (Pitching from the set position while facing the runner on first)
Emotional adjustment...
There are simply too many shortcomings. As I am now, I'm still nowhere near good enough!!
If I become Japan's Number One pitcher, then the team can become Japan's Number One too!!"
After reading the notes in his hand, Kataoka Coach clasped his hands together and placed them atop the stack of notebooks as though nothing had happened!
Yet the hands that had just left the notebook remained on the desk, showing no intention of picking up the next one.
Even Kataoka Coach could not remain unmoved after seeing the resolve of his team's ace.
Nearly ten seconds later, Kataoka Coach's gaze sharpened as he continued with the next notebook!!
In the blink of an eye, the week ended, and Friday arrived!
Throughout that week, Kataoka Coach maintained his usual rhythm as he observed the players' practice.
The rest period after dinner naturally turned into the War Council!
Of course, the leftover-food group listened while eating...
"We've finished introducing Ichidai San High's situation.
Next is tomorrow's starting lineup!
The fielders will be the same as in the previous game!!"
"Yes!"
"So that means Yuki will be in left field?"
"Still, his performance last week really was pretty good!"
Though they answered Kataoka Coach, the players all had their own thoughts. Still, no one objected to the arrangement.
That final Sayonara Home Run had earned him plenty of points, and there had not been any major issues with his defense either.
"Finally, tomorrow's starter..."
At that instant, the ears of both Double Pitchers perked up at