Dangerous Batters (1)

Upon seeing Ken walk into the batters box, Ryan's once serious expression faltered a little. Seeing the smile on Ken's face only reminded him of his humiliation just a few days ago on this very field.

He couldn't help but grit his teeth, feeling his anger mount.

It was only after seeing Leo stand up and look at him deeply that he managed to compose himself. There was no point in getting worked up in this situation since it would only serve to distract him.

'Just stick to the game plan.' He told himself inwardly.

They'd already dissected their previous game film over and over in order to make sure they didn't make the same mistakes. Yet the fact that Japan was able to pinpoint and take advantage of such small nuances was concerning.

Ryan nodded his head, accepting the sign from his catcher.

He wound up before sending the ball flying towards the strike zone.

PAH

"Strike."