The second inning began with Sora back on the mound, maintaining the same calm and focus he had shown in the first. Suiren Junior High was trying to adjust to the young pitcher's precise and varied pitches, but Sora's control and his synchronization with Daigo proved impenetrable.
Suiren's fourth batter, eager to reach base and give the team a chance to recover, took his position in the box with a firm stance. After a brief analysis, Daigo signaled for a low fastball outside the zone. Sora nodded and quickly started his wind-up, delivering with precision.
PAH
"Ball!" - The umpire announced.
Unfazed by the initial ball, Sora followed Daigo's call for a screwball down the middle. The screwball, with its unexpected break, had been his secret weapon, and Sora knew it would continue to pose challenges.
WOOSH
PAH
"Strike!"
