After a while of pitching, Coach Nakamura called out, "Ok, stop, boys." Hearing the sound of the coach, Narumia and Kazuki stopped.
"Ah... we just started throwing," Narumia complained.
"Yeah, we just started, Coach. Why did you stop?" Kazuki added.
Coach Nakamura replied, "I know, but we need to move on. Kazuki, I want to check other aspects of your game now. Plus, batting practice is crucial. It's not just about pitching and catching. You need to excel in all areas to be a well-rounded player."
"Narumia, go and practice with others"
" Hump... "Narumia grumbled, then headed to the field where the others were practicing.
Coach Nakamura walked Kazuki over to where the pitching machine was set up. The machine stood tall, with a bucket of baseballs beside it. Coach Nakamura gestured towards the machine and began explaining the basics of batting to Kazuki.
"Kazuki, batting is a crucial skill in baseball. It's not just about swinging the bat; it's about timing, technique, and focus," Coach Nakamura started. "This pitching machine will help you practice your batting skills by simulating different types of pitches."
He continued, "First, you need to find your stance. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your weight evenly distributed. Hold the bat comfortably with your hands close to your body and your eyes on the pitcher."
Coach Nakamura demonstrated the stance and then handed the bat to Kazuki. "Next, you need to watch the ball closely as it leaves the pitching machine. Focus on the rotation of the ball and its speed. This will help you anticipate where the ball will be and when to swing."
"Then try to swing freely, Kazuki," Coach Nakamura instructed.
Kazuki nodded and took a deep breath, focusing on his stance, and started to swing freely.
"Good, Kazuki. Keep going," Coach Nakamura encouraged.
After a while of swinging, Coach Nakamura said, "Now, let's try real hitting."
He adjusted the settings on the pitching machine and set it in motion. The machine whirred to life, and a baseball shot out towards Kazuki. As the baseball approached, Kazuki focused intently, anticipating its path. He swung the bat just as the ball neared him.
With a "ping," the baseball made contact with Kazuki's bat, but it was an irregular hit. The ball hit the ground and rolled away, not the clean hit Kazuki had hoped for.
"Good! Remember, timing is key. You want to swing the bat as the ball is approaching you, not after it has passed," Coach Nakamura advised. "Keep practicing, and you'll improve your batting skills in no time."
Kazuki nodded, absorbing the coach's advice. He took his stance once again as more balls were launched from the machine. Some swings resulted in hitting the ground, while others missed his bat entirely.
Coach Nakamura observed Kazuki's first attempts at batting, noticing some initial struggles. However, he remained encouraging and approached Kazuki with positivity.
"Hey, Kazuki, great effort out there. It's your first time, and it's natural to have some difficulties. But you showed good dynamic vision, which is important in batting," Coach Nakamura praised, trying to cheer Kazuki up.
He continued, "To improve your batting, focus on timing and coordination. Try to anticipate the ball's path and adjust your swing accordingly. Keep your eyes on the ball from the moment it leaves the machine until it reaches your bat."
Coach Nakamura demonstrated a proper swing, emphasizing the follow-through. "Remember, it's not just about hitting the ball but also about controlling its direction and power. Keep practicing, and you'll get the hang of it."
Encouraged by Coach Nakamura's words, Kazuki nodded, determined to improve his batting skills
"That's it for today, Kazuki. You seem to have great potential, although it may seem a bit clumsy now. With practice and experience, you will get better," Coach Nakamura said encouragingly.
"Thank you, coach. See you tomorrow," Kazuki replied, slightly bowed and left.
As Kazuki returned home, his mother greeted him at the door. "Hey, Kazuki, how was practice today?" she asked, noticing his somber expression.
Kazuki sighed, "It was tough, Mom. I struggled with my batting. Coach says I have potential, but I need more practice."
His mother gave him a comforting hug. "Don't worry, Kazuki. Rome wasn't built in a day. Keep practicing, and you'll get there."
Just then, Kazuki's father walked in. "What's going on?" he asked, noticing the serious atmosphere.
Kazuki explained the situation, and his father patted him on the back. "You're doing great, son. Just keep working hard, and you'll improve."
His mother chimed in, "Let's not dwell on it. Dinner's ready. Let's eat and relax. Tomorrow's a new day."
Kazuki nodded, feeling reassured by his parents' support. He knew that with their encouragement, he could face any challenge that came his way.