Chapter 170: The Battle Against Nanagamari Tech Begins
"It seems that this kid either has something truly unique or is extremely special," Sakata mused, stroking his chin.
As the coach who had led Nanagamari Tech to Koshien repeatedly, Sakata's judgment wasn't something to take lightly.
In the past, Nanagamari's primary strategy for success was never to underestimate any opponent.
Whether they were traditional powerhouses, rising dark horses, or prestigious teams on a hot streak, Nanagamari's approach was always cautious and steady.
No matter what strategies or tactics the other side might employ, Nanagamari's style was to stay grounded and play their own game.
Of course, if the starting pitcher had been the first-year lefty Sawamura Eijun, Sakata wouldn't have had any doubts.
While regular spectators might not have followed the regional tournaments closely, for teams that make it to Koshien, gathering detailed intel is critical.
Sawamura's performance in the West Tokyo tournament was thoroughly noted by these top teams.
Currently, he's widely regarded as Seidou's true ace pitcher.
Especially after his complete game against Inashiro in the finals, where he secured a win after nine innings, he's become a major threat in the eyes of rival coaches.
As for Furuya, he was mainly known for his fastball.
Since his appearances in the regional tournament were limited, there wasn't much data on him yet.
Thus, some inaccuracies in scouting reports were to be expected.
"Their pitcher must have something unique about him," Sakata said, still stroking his chin thoughtfully. "Let's focus on testing the waters in the first round. But if you see an opening, don't hesitate to go for a solid hit. Understood?"
"Yes, sir!"
The Nanagamari Tech starters responded firmly.
The players' calm and disciplined demeanor clearly mirrored Sakata's influence as a coach.
While they might not have any standout individual talents, Nanagamari players are exceptionally composed, and this strong mental fortitude places them among the top-tier teams at Koshien.
No matter how chaotic the situation, they stay level-headed and stick to their style.
They aren't arrogant, don't get carried away, and never overestimate or underestimate others.
This is the hallmark of the ever-steady powerhouse, Nanagamari Tech.
"Top of the first inning, Nanagamari Tech at bat. Leading off, first baseman, Sawano!"
Nanagamari Tech, taking the offensive first, planned to adhere closely to their standard strategy in this inning: stay calm and observe.
However, this cautious approach nearly put them in serious danger.
On the mound, a tall, imposing figure with a slightly cold expression stood poised—the monster pitcher from the north!
"A first-year as the starting pitcher?"
"What happened to the third-year ace?"
"And isn't their first-year, Sawamura Eijun, supposed to be pitching?"
"Wait, he's in left field? What is Seidou thinking?"
"This is an important first match—can this kid handle it?"
As Furuya took the mound, murmurs of doubt and suspicion rose from the stands.
The spectators wore skeptical expressions, unsure if Furuya could hold his own.
In this brutal, single-elimination format, there are no second chances.
A single loss would end their run, and the third-years' summer dreams along with it.
"This is Koshien! The grand stage of the entire country!"
In this context, sending a first-year pitcher to the mound was surprising, even to Seidou's most enthusiastic supporters, especially when they saw that Eijun was stationed in left field.
Many spectators raised an eyebrow at Seidou's decision, their expressions reflecting a mixture of disbelief and skepticism.
"That's why I'm saying, they shouldn't be sending a first-year…"
"BOOMM!!"
Thud!
"Strike!"
The ball hit the catcher's glove with the power of an exploding cannon, like a laser beam flashing into the mitt. The entire stadium fell silent for an instant at the sound.
"A… first-year? What the… how fast is that?"
The same spectator who had just been scoffing at Furuya's abilities was now wide-eyed, his mouth twitching in shock.
He couldn't hide his astonishment, watching the radar gun's reading on the scoreboard.
The speed displayed—"151 KM"—sent the stadium into a frenzy.
"151 km/h?!"
"What the… is this kid really a first-year pitcher?!"
"I feel a bit dizzy… is this for real?"
"Seidou's got an unbelievable monster on their hands this year."
"Nice pitch! Just keep that up, Furuya!" Miyuki grinned as he tossed the ball back, cheering on Furuya with a shout.
"Nice job, Furuya!"
"Haha, that's it! Keep that intensity, Furuya, and knock them down one by one!"
In left field, Sawamura couldn't help but smirk as he heard the crowd's roar of excitement.
High speed sure had its perks—instantaneously electrifying the atmosphere.
Against the sheer force of Furuya's pitching, the Nanagamari Tech batters were left stunned, unable to react.
Their captain, Sawano Hiroyuki, was shocked as well.
The fastball barreled toward him like a beast, closing in before he even had time to respond, vanishing into the catcher's mitt.
On the bench, Coach Sakata furrowed his brow. He knew Furuya was fast, but he hadn't expected this kind of speed—151 km/h, and it didn't even seem like Furuya's limit.
With just his speed alone, Furuya was already proving a serious challenge for Nanagamari Tech.
It was undeniable: Furuya's first pitch made an immense impact. The over-150-km/h fastball had an intimidating power, shaking Nanagamari Tech's confidence.
Fortunately, their competitive experience and strong mentality allowed them to regain composure and adjust their approach.
But the sheer pressure from that sudden, powerful fastball made it difficult for them to get into their rhythm in the top half of the inning, as Furuya dominated with his aggressive pitching.
Three pitches.
Three strikes.
A spectacular debut.
Nanagamari's leadoff batter and captain, Sawano Hiroyuki, was struck out.
Afterward, Sawano looked back at the mound with a grim expression, sighing slightly before stepping off the field.
He hadn't even had a chance to adapt to the pitch sequence, let alone employ his usual tactics.
His first at-bat ended in a predictably tough out.
The second and third batters who followed had no better luck, succumbing to Furuya's power, unable to counter the combined force of Furuya's pitching and Miyuki's game-calling.
Seidou claimed the top half of the first inning effortlessly, securing three outs.
The roles instantly switched as Seidou now took to offense.
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