"If you can hit it, go ahead. Just make sure you're tracking the ball at every opportunity."
"Yes sir!"
Still filled to the brim with morale, the Japanese players shouted back with vigor. There was an obvious shift in their mood after Ken's magic-like words on the field earlier.
"Batting 3rd, 1st base, Hiroki."
As Hiroki stepped into the batters box, the Head Coach approached Ken. While his gaze was stalwart, inwardly his impression of Ken had increased by leaps and bounds.
"You'll be pitching starting next inning. Think you can handle it?"
Ken felt his spirits soar at these words, yet his face remained determined. He had been waiting for this news ever since he had made the National Team over a week ago.
"Yes sir!" He replied, almost saluting out of reflex.
Coach Takashi's face broke into a smile briefly before he headed back to Chris at the entrance to the dugout.
