The top of the second inning began with Tokyo Chariots' cleanup hitter, but pitcher Kitaoka only allowed one strikeout and two routine fly balls to the outfield. Our Shizuoka Oceans team's attack in the bottom of the second inning mirrored the top, as Takita retired all three batters in order.
Both teams continued to exchange quick outs through the third inning, with Kitaoka and Takita both off to strong starts.
The top of the fourth inning began with Tokyo Chariots' leadoff hitter, Sakai, who had doubled in the first inning. Perhaps Kitaoka was too cautious, as he ended up walking Sakai after a full count. No outs, runner on first base. Next up was my rival, Okaya.
After one ball and one strike, Okaya connected with the third pitch, sending a sharp liner flying towards me at second base. I jumped reflexively, and the ball once again found my glove. I quickly threw to first baseman Shimizu.
"Out!"
Another double play. Okaya looked up in frustration. It was the second consecutive at-bat where he was robbed of a hit and fell victim to a double play. Despite being on the opposing team, I couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for him.
Pitcher Takita then retired the next batter to end the inning. As I returned to the bench, the crowd was buzzing with excitement. My turn to bat was approaching.
*This time, I need to get on base.*
In my previous at-bat, I managed to get a good piece of Takita's slider, but Okaya's spectacular catch thwarted my efforts. Should I bet on the slider again? Or maybe a changeup? Apparently, he also throws a splitter. I decided to focus on the slider until I had to adjust.
First pitch. A fastball low and outside. I made good contact, sending the ball down the right-field line.
*Please fall.*
I sprinted to first base, but the ball landed foul. If it had been just 50 cm further inside, it would have been my first professional hit.
The second pitch was a changeup high and inside. I leaned back and dodged it. One ball, one strike.
The third pitch was a fastball low and over the middle. I thought it was too low and let it go, but the umpire called it a strike. One ball, two strikes. I was cornered.
*Now is not the time to be cautious. React to whatever comes your way.*
The fourth pitch was another fastball low and outside. I started to swing but managed to hold up. Two balls, two strikes.
The decisive fifth pitch. A slider over the middle. I swung hard, focusing on my right hand, and made solid contact. The ball soared towards right-center field.
*If this falls, it'll be a long hit.*
I sprinted towards first base, watching the ball's trajectory out of the corner of my eye. Okaya was sprinting back, glove outstretched. He crashed into the outfield fence.
*Did he get it?*
The second base umpire ran toward Okaya.
"Out."
The umpire's right hand went up. Okaya had made another incredible catch. I stood at second base, staring up at the sky in disbelief.
*Is this really happening? How is that not a hit?*
The level of play in the first team was so high. Okaya's play was shown in slow motion on the large screen in the outfield. He turned, reached out, and caught the ball just as he crashed into the fence.
"Nice batting," batting coach Onda and player Tomatsu said as I returned to the bench.
*But no matter how well you bat, it's meaningless if you don't get a hit.*
I sat on the bench, refusing to give up. Those could have easily been two consecutive hits if not for Okaya. Despite my frustration, I couldn't help but marvel at his defensive prowess.
"Do you have some grudge against Okaya?" first baseman Shimizu joked, sitting at the back of the bench.
*Come to think of it, I've caught Okaya's hits every single time, including in the previous game. Maybe he really does hate me...* I couldn't help but feel a strange connection between Okaya and me.