29:Takigawa Chris Yu!

Late at night, inside the office of Supervisor Kataoka, three figures become dimly visible – the prominent trio of Seido High School baseball: Director Kataoka, Director Ota, and Deputy Director Rei Takashima.

"Director Kataoka, I believe that young player should be given the chance to join the First String for training. His potential and strength are evident," Rei Takashima suggested with a deep voice.

"I'm inclined towards the Second String. Considering he's been at the school for just a month and is still a freshman," Minister Ohta disagreed, shaking his head. "Although, I do admit his performance in the Red and White Battle was undeniably exceptional."

"Looking ahead, our team is facing a shortage of pitchers, making someone like him essential, correct? That's precisely why Director Kataoka decided to have Satoru Furuya join the first string training, isn't it? From where I stand, Sawamura Eijun's potential is by no means inferior to Furuya's. Moreover, at this stage, Sawamura Eijun's abilities undoubtedly surpass Furuya's. The idea of him entering the first string and immediately contributing as a strong asset isn't far-fetched."

With a casual demeanor, Takashima Rei adjusted her glasses and expressed her viewpoint.

"I completely agree. However, considering that Furuya is already part of the First String, I still believe it's more fitting for Sawamura Eijun to join the Second String for training," Minister Ota asserted, shaking his head. "Furthermore, that young player possesses a remarkable natural ball speed – a true gift. From this perspective, I see more potential in Furuya than in Eijun Sawamura. Additionally, with Tanba's recovery and Kawakami's improving pitches, the First String's pitching situation is on the mend. Originally, I felt confident relying on Tanba and Kawakami. Investing in Furuya's training feels a bit unnecessary. Introducing another first-year pitcher seems rather reluctant."

In the face of Takashima Rei's assertive stance, Minister Ota remained resolute in his position.

Naturally, the two engaged in conversation while Supervisor Kataoka maintained his silence. Ultimately, the decisive verdict rested within Supervisor Kataoka's hands – his decision would determine everything.

"His delivery is as natural as a ball's flight, with an elusive release point, a snappy pitching posture, and fluid joints."

"As for the uncut gem's size, Sawamura Eijun might overshadow Furuya. Given his unwavering determination and straight-ahead spirit, Eijun Sawamura undoubtedly embodies limitless potential for the future."

Amidst the ongoing debate between Takashima Rei and Minister Ota, Director Kataoka's unexpected interjection brought a flicker of contentment to Takashima Rei's countenance.

"Then that settles it..."

"Nonetheless, it requires further refinement in the Second String," Supervisor Kataoka's voice resonated deeply.

"Hmm?" Takashima Rei experienced a moment of surprise, followed by a contemplative expression as if she had grasped something.

"Supervisor, are you suggesting we cultivate Sawamura's potential?" Takashima Rei inquired, her expression filled with curiosity.

"Hmm?" Rei Takashima seemed to have decoded Supervisor Kataoka's true intent, but Director Ota remained somewhat puzzled.

Was it possible that Director Kataoka had more profound motives for placing that young player in the Second String? Minister Ota pondered, his thoughts tangled in confusion.

"It's about harnessing that raw energy. Excessive smoothness might not be advantageous. Let him begin in the Second String, with Chris guiding the refining process," Supervisor Kataoka explained in a casual tone.

"Putting it in Chris's hands?!" Minister Ota exclaimed, clearly surprised.

"Indeed, that seems fitting."

Takashima Rei's face brightened with a content smile as she responded softly.

"Then, let's proceed."

Following a subtle signal from Supervisor Kataoka, Rei Takashima and Minister Ota opened the office door and departed.

Supervisor Kataoka stood by the glass window, hands clasped behind his back, gazing at the moonlit night beyond.

His eyes conveyed a mix of seriousness and resolve.

The subsequent morning arrived, with the same routine morning exercises as always.

While the second and third-year students focused on fielding exercises resembling real-game scenarios, the first-year students, including Furuya from the first string and Sawamura Eijun along with Haruichi Kominato from the second string, concentrated on endurance training and running.

Certainly, unlike everyone running, Eijun's routine stands out as he carries three tires tethered behind him. This unique method of endurance training was notably effective in the original narrative. Six months prior, since arriving in this new world, Eijun deliberately embraced this method to elevate his physical resilience and stamina.

In addition to bolstering his physicality, this practice targeted core strength, fostering both physical and mental stability. Such stability would later prove advantageous for channeling power in pitching and hitting. Initiated six months back, Eijun had already transitioned from two tires to the current three.

With time, it's not far-fetched to imagine that Eijun could ultimately mirror Supervisor Kataoka's high school days, when he too ran, towing truck tires, just as detailed in the original story.

"Sawamura-kun's physical strength is truly impressive," Kominato Haruichi observed with a hint of envy while running beside Eijun.

"Well, being a country kid, I used to deliberately work on this aspect. In high school baseball, especially on the mound, if you lack physical strength, it's hard to endure, haha!" Eijun replied with a grin.

"I wonder if I could manage it," Kominato Haruichi mused softly.

"This method is actually quite suitable. The right amount is key. Later, I can help you find a similar tire, and we can do it together," Eijun offered in response.

"Really? Then I'll give it a shot as well," Haruichi chimed in, his eyes glinting with curiosity from beneath his bangs.

Meanwhile, Furuya seemed to show subtle interest, his ears perking up slightly.

"By the way, feel free to call me Eijun. Using 'Sawamura' feels too formal," Eijun suggested.

"Huh?" Haruichi seemed a bit surprised.

"We're already friends, aren't we? In that case, I'll call you Haruichi," Eijun stated cheerfully.

"Well, that sounds good," Haruichi blushed slightly, uncertain if it was due to the running-induced sweat or Eijun's friendly smile that caused his shyness.

In this moment, Haruichi resembled a delicate and radiant blossom, exuding a charming and adorable aura in the sunlight.

Fortunately, at that very moment, an announcement resonated across the stadium's speakers.

"First-year students Furuya-kun and Sawamura-kun, please gather at Playground A immediately upon hearing this announcement."

Gathering?

Eijun was initially caught off guard, but in an instant, an idea sparked within him, and an excited glint lit up his expression.

Upon arriving at Playground A with Furuya, they encountered three figures positioned by the first base bench. Rei Takashima occupied the center, flanked by two boys donning catcher's gear.

One was the familiar figure of Miyuki Kazuya, a known face.

The other, however, was a monumental presence in Eijun's baseball destiny – the pivotal initial mentor on his baseball journey.

Takigawa Chris Yu!!!