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Ace of the Diamond — Season 1
#Episode nameAir dateRuntimeRating
01
24mThe One PitchThe game concluded with a final, agonizing loss for Eijun Sawamura, the pitcher of his junior high team. It marked the end of his junior high career, and a new ambition took root: to reach the national tournament with his teammates in high school. As he immersed himself in rigorous preparation, an unexpected visitor arrived. Her name was Rei Takashima, the assistant director of the renowned Seidou High School baseball team. Recognizing Sawamura's potential, Takashima extended an invitation to joOct 6, 2013Oct 6, 201324m02
24mPartnerIn a pivotal moment against Seido’s formidable cleanup hitter, Kiyokuni Azuma, Kazuya Miyuki takes the catcher’s position for Sawamura. As Eijun strives for a fastball down the center, tension grips him, hindering his command. Sensing his struggle, Kazuya signals for a timeout and approaches the mound, offering words of encouragement. They work, and Eijun finds a newfound steadiness, unleashing a power he hadn't realized resided within him. Witnessing how someone like Kazuya could reshape his piOct 13, 20137.0Oct 13, 201324m7.003
24mNot Qualified to Be a Pitcher?A tremor of apprehension ran through Eijun as he settled in with his older teammates, but a surprising warmth eased his anxieties on his first night. The next morning, however, sleep lingered, and he arrived late for the meeting with Coach Tesshina Katoka, a veteran of the Japanese professional pitching circuit. Miyuki was similarly tardy, employing Sawamura as a convenient excuse to slip into the meeting unnoticed. Katoka offered no leniency, her words sharp and direct: Eijun would never progreOct 20, 2013Oct 20, 201324m04
24mAre You Like Me?Seido found themselves matched against Ichidai Third High, the team that had defeated them the previous year. Though their powerful offense was scoring consistently, their ace pitcher, Tanba, was faltering, and the game had devolved into a battle of individual batting prowess. Yet Sawamura was absent from the field, instead diligently training back at school. It was there that Furuya, another first-year pitcher, approached him. Understanding Sawamura’s unconventional training regimen, Furuya offOct 27, 2013Oct 27, 201324m05
24mA ClashCoach Katoka, whom Onoda sometimes calls Shades, arranges a game pitting the freshmen against the reserve players from the second and third-year squads. The purpose is to decide which newcomers will earn a spot alongside the established players in the upcoming practice contests. While encountering Katoka in the bathhouse, Onoda is given one last opportunity to respond to the coach’s query. Once the answer is delivered, Onoda is permitted to participate in the next game, though his assignment asNov 3, 2013Nov 3, 201324m06
24mHead to HeadEijun reaches first base, spurred on by the encouragement of his classmate, Haruichi Kominato. Haruichi pledges to drive him in for the first year and score a run. He proves a skilled batter, and with Haruichi's success, Eijun manages to score. But the first years are quickly retired, and Coach Katoka declares the game over unless they all agree to continue. Most are ready to concede, but Eijun’s words of encouragement rally them. Eijun takes the pitcher's mound, with Haruichi positioned at shorNov 10, 2013Nov 10, 201324m07
24mThe Two BatteriesWith the final out, Furuya and Masuko earned their promotion to the varsity team, while Eijun and Haruichi were assigned to JV. This advancement brought with it specialized pitching training for Furuya and Eijun, though they were restricted to the partners designated by Coach Katoka. Furuya was paired with Miyuki, and Sawamura with Chris. Yet, instead of focusing on pitching, Chris repeatedly assigned Eijun tasks outside of his role on the mound. This left Eijun with the unsettling impression thNov 17, 2013Nov 17, 201324m08
24mThe Truth About ChrisChris consistently departs practice early to provide Eijun with extra drills. Eijun feels Chris is coasting, having abandoned any hope of earning a spot in the starting lineup, but what truly infuriates him is Chris’s assertion that he will never be the ace while Furuya remains on the team. Rei Takashima then confesses that she specifically paired Eijun with Chris due to his understanding of the game. Eijun’s disparaging remarks about Chris draw a sharp reaction from Miyuki. Ultimately, Rei takeNov 24, 2013Nov 24, 201324m09
24mWith Chagrin in His HeartDriven by a desire to understand the nuances of baseball, Sawamura began shadowing Chris, seeking to absorb every detail. He even began sitting out of practices, hoping to glean insight into the intricate communication that bound the team together. Finally, worn down by Eijun’s persistent efforts, Chris relented and accepted a few pitches from him. After the throws, Chris told Eijun that true effectiveness as a pitcher demanded the discovery of a unique strength. Initially bewildered, Sawamura sDec 1, 2013Dec 1, 201324m10
24mHone Your Moving FastballChris finally confided in Eijun, explaining that his defining characteristic was a fastball with remarkable movement. He detailed the rigorous training he had imparted, asserting that with consistent effort over a year, Eijun could become the team's ace. Yet, Eijun wished to express his gratitude to Chris through a personal gesture: delivering his best pitch directly to him in a game. One night, during clandestine practice, Coach Katoka discovered him and warned of a potential separation betweenDec 8, 2013Dec 8, 201324m11
24mChris to the Field!Eijun seems to possess a new velocity on his fastball, yet his command has become erratic. Having walked the bases full with no outs, Coach Katoka signals for a substitution. The majority of the team anticipates Eijun's removal, but Chris is brought into the game instead. He gathers the infield and unveils a strategy he believes will decisively shift the tide. The only uncertainty remains: whether Eijun can regain his composure and execute with pitches still prone to wildness.Dec 15, 2013Dec 15, 201324m12
24mTargetChris enlisted Miyuki and Sawamura in the bullpen, working to refine Sawamura’s new pitching motion and coax him into consistently throwing strikes. During the game, Chris's father, Animal, appeared and urged him to quit playing. He insisted Chris’s shoulder wasn't fully recovered and that continuing would only worsen his injury. To disrupt Seido's rhythm, Naoyuki Zaizen proposed a shift in focus: instead of targeting Sawamura, they should aim their efforts at Chris himself. This episode encompaDec 22, 2013Dec 22, 201324m13
24mYou're in the First-StringTo quell the onslaught against Chris, Sawamura abandoned his altered pitching style, returning to his fundamental form while steadfastly holding the line against the formidable Naoyuki Zaizen. The change not only restored Sawamura's velocity but also began to unsettle Zaizen, exposing a prior injury. With the balance of power reestablished between Chris and Zaizen, momentum shifted decisively to Seido. After three innings, both Chris and Sawamura were relieved from duty. As the game ended, the CDec 29, 2013Dec 29, 201324m14
24mTraining Camp Begins!Sawamura maintains his rigorous training, but when Chris observes his overexertion, he enlists Miyuki to guide him to the indoor facility for pickoff drills and leg positioning exercises, preventing potential injury. Furuya is reminded of the need for nail trimming and is also required to participate in pickoff training. He remarks to Miyuki about his own complicated nature. Tanba observes his competitors, solidifying his resolve to prevent anyone else from earning the ace pitcher's number. As hJan 12, 2014Jan 12, 201424m15
24mLead with Your Plays!The training camp presses on. The freshmen struggle to match the intensity of the drills. As Sawamura gains strength incrementally, he is summoned to Miyuki’s room for an unknown purpose. Inside, his senior teammates await him, and…Jan 19, 2014Jan 19, 201424m16
24mChallengeThe practice game between Seido and Osaka Kiryu commenced with Furuya resolved to concede no hits, the coach's words – "go get obliterated today" – echoing in his mind. The first batter connected powerfully, sending the ball deep into the outfield. A walk, loading the bases, granted Kiryu a 3-0 lead, prompting Miyuki to visit the mound. His words served as a reminder to Furuya: trust in his fielders. Consequently, Furuya began intentionally allowing hits, enabling his outfielders to compensate fJan 26, 2014Jan 26, 201424m17
24mGames Are FunHiromi Toshi, Seido’s star pitcher, maintained his control over the opposing batters, his velocity seemingly growing with each inning. Miyuki, the catcher, proposed a challenge: a pitching duel against Toshi, with Furuya throwing with maximum effort to achieve a strikeout. In the bottom of the fifth, Furuya demonstrated his own power with a home run off Toshi, a display of force that seemed to level the playing field. As the score tightened, the game progressed into the sixth inning. Sawamura waFeb 2, 2014Feb 2, 201424m18
24mI Hate It, But...Miyuki persistently attempts to coax Sawamura into pitching closer to the batter, seeking greater command, yet his pep talks appear to fall on deaf ears. Gradually, Sawamura begins to rely on his infielders, and with this newfound trust, his pitching starts to show improvement. Though runs are conceded, both Sawamura and Furuya absorb the lessons the coach intended for them during the training camp. After the game, Coach Matsumoto acknowledges Sawamura's talent, suggesting it could be a potent aFeb 9, 2014Feb 9, 201424m19
24mFateThe week of grueling practice concludes with a three-game series hosted at Seido's field: Inashiro Industrial versus Seido, followed by Inashiro Industrial against Shuuhoku, and finally, Shuuhoku facing Seido. Kawakami takes the mound for Seido against Inashiro Industrial, with Miyauchi at catcher, while Tanba finds himself paired with Miyuki behind the plate. None of the regular starters see action in the first game against Inashiro Industrial; however, Furuya occupies left field throughout theFeb 16, 2014Feb 16, 201424m20
24mEmergencyThe second half of the match between Seido and Shuuhoku commenced with Tanba’s introduction of his forkball, a move that, when paired with his fastball and curveball, seemed to imbue the Seido team with renewed confidence. However, as Tanba stepped up to bat, Shuuhoku's pitcher lost control of a pitch, triggering an immediate cancellation of the game—an event that threatened to derail Seido’s season. A palpable sense of disappointment settled over the players as the summer tournament bracket wasFeb 23, 2014Feb 23, 201424m21
24mTo the Dream StageKanemaru assists Sawamura in his exam preparations. His participation in a game hinges on achieving passing scores across all subjects. After a few practice tests, he earns a 30, two 35s, and a 36, securing his eligibility for the upcoming tournament. As Chris observes Sawamura's pitching motion, he contemplates refining Sawamura’s grip into an unparalleled advantage. Furuya, however, must retake the examination. Numbers are distributed to each player. The opening ceremonies for the Tokyo TournaMar 2, 2014Mar 2, 201424m22
24mCalling for AttentionSeido demonstrated to Maimon West the folly of underestimating any opponent in the tournament. After a scoreless first inning, punctuated by three retirements, Seido rallied to score three runs in the second. Meanwhile, Furuya relentlessly struck out batter after batter with his blazing fastball. The team continued to exploit Maimon West's weaknesses, building a commanding 15-0 lead.Mar 9, 2014Mar 9, 201424m23
24mOfficial Game DebutHolding a commanding 15-0 lead, Seido sends Sawamura to the mound in the fourth inning. The game concludes shortly after, securing Seido's advancement with comfortable ease. Observing Furuya’s high trajectory, Chris takes Sawamura aside, offering instruction on grip and technique – transforming his pitch into an unexpected and potent weapon. Seido then proceeds to their second tournament game against Public Murata East High School.Mar 16, 2014Mar 16, 201424m24
24mPrecision MachineThe game between Seido and Public Murata East concluded with another called game in Seido’s favor, a decisive 10-0 victory after five innings. The team remained to observe the subsequent match, where they witnessed Shunshin Yeung of Akikawa Academy and his remarkable command of the pitching mound. Yeung consistently aimed for the outside corners, his varied rotation of locations making it exceptionally difficult for batters to anticipate his pitches. Seido immediately began strategizing to countMar 23, 2014Mar 23, 201424m25
24mAnti-Furuya StrategyThe night before the game, Coach Katoka steps into the batter's box, requesting Sawamura pitch to him. The outcome of that pitch will determine his role in the Akikawa game. As the game commences, Furuya throws with all his might. Yet, Akikawa unveils a strategy: to exhaust him with a barrage of bunts and induced wild pitches. Miyuki recognizes their plan and devises a counter, but can Furuya bring it to fruition?Mar 30, 2014Mar 30, 201424m26
24mMiracle AkikawaAt the top of the first inning, Shunshin Yeung steps up to the plate and draws a fastball from Furuya, connecting squarely and sending the ball soaring to left field, scoring Akikawa and establishing a 2-0 lead for Seido. With the advantage secured, Yeung heads to the pitcher's mound, where he begins to orchestrate his precise delivery. He has devised a strategy, one he believes could dismantle Seido if executed flawlessly, but it hinges on scoring another run against Furuya.Apr 6, 2014Apr 6, 201424m27
24mI'm Not RunningWith the temperature steadily climbing, Coach Katoka issued a firm warning: should Furuya allow even a single runner to reach base, he would be replaced. Initially, this challenge spurred Furuya to greater effort, and his fastball gained velocity. Yet, Akikawa began to execute their bunt strategy with precision, demanding that Furuya exert himself further. A pitching change became inevitable, and Sawamura was summoned. After a near-fumble on a throw to first, Miyuki signaled for a four-seam fastApr 13, 2014Apr 13, 201424m28
24mPath, Eijun Sawamura to the Scorching MoundThis installment recounts the initial twenty-seven episodes, charting Eijun Sawamura's journey to the Seido High School baseball team. It details his early challenges with the junior varsity squad and his subsequent ascent to a place within the tournament roster, all fueled by his persistent ambition to become the team's ace pitcher.Apr 20, 2014Apr 20, 201424m29
24mNeck and NeckSawamura’s relentless fastball and sharp four-seamer continued to trouble the Akikawa batters. As the Seido hitters began to find their footing, Miyuki stepped up to the plate, deftly anticipating the pitches Shunshin Yeung would deliver. Miyuki’s at-bat served not only to sharpen the Seido batters' skills, but also prompted Tanba to warm up in the bullpen, adding another layer of anxiety for Akikawa's lineup. Would these efforts prove sufficient to turn the tide and secure a lead for Seido?Apr 27, 2014Apr 27, 201424m30
24mWinner and LoserIchidai remained intently focused on the match between Seido and Akikawa, predicting that the next team to score would claim victory in the tight 2-2 tie. Coach Katoka made a strategic move, inserting Haruichi as a pinch hitter, and he immediately earned a base on balls. Sawamura's bunt advanced Haruichi to second, positioning Kuramochi, the lead-off batter. Would Kuramochi finally overcome Shunshin Yeung’s precise pitching and reach base? Which team would break the deadlock and seize control ofMay 4, 2014May 4, 201424m31
24mDark HorseFollowing their victory, Seido remained to observe Manaka's pitching, seeking a marginal edge for the upcoming quarterfinal. Tanba recalled their shared past and vowed to reclaim the quarterfinal match. However, Yakushi had significantly altered their lineup, integrating three first-years into the crucial third, fourth, and fifth positions. The first of these newcomers, Raichi Todoroki, proved immediately impactful, launching Manaka's fastest fastball over the stadium walls to establish an earlyMay 11, 2014May 11, 201424m32
24mSummersRaichi steps back into the batter's box for a second encounter with Manaka. Though Manaka delivers some promising pitches and seems to hold the upper hand, an unlucky bounce results in an injury to him. With Manaka sidelined, the team’s pitching falters. The result of the Yakusi/Ichidai game astounds the Seido players, as Raichi's hits determine the outcome. Now, Seido must prepare for a team they know little about, having observed only a single match. As the first-year players head toward the bMay 18, 2014May 18, 201424m3324mMoney TreeThe scene opens with Chris instructing the team on Yakushi's formidable hitting ability and highlighting Sanada, their true ace, as he enters the game to deliver a shootball. Witnessing this display of strategy, Katoka resolves to intervene. He summons Sawamura, Furuya, and Kawakami to his office, informing them that Tanba will not be pitching in the upcoming game. Instead, he assigns Furuya to the first three innings, Sawamura to innings four through six, and Kawakami to close out the final thrMay 25, 2014May 25, 201424m34
24mReliable TeammatesRaichi meets Furuya at the plate and draws a walk. The following batter sends a single rolling, allowing Raichi to cross home plate and give Yasuki a 1-0 lead. Miyuki swiftly reminds Furuya that he has dependable teammates supporting him, and after a brilliant caught steal on Yasuki, Miyuki instills in Seido the confidence they require. Seido answers in the bottom of the first, and a two-run home run by Masuko propels them to a 3-1 advantage. Realizing his meticulous strategy will prove insufficJun 1, 2014Jun 1, 201424m35
24mPotentialBatting seventh, Furuya connects for a solo home run in the top of the third, extending Seido’s lead to 4-1. In the bottom of the same inning, Coach Katoka signals a pitching change, bringing Sawamura into the game and shifting Furuya to left field. Initially, Sawamura delivers a fastball right down the center, but a quick throw from Miyuki reminds him that baseball is a team effort. Regaining his focus, Sawamura deceives Raichi with a series of outside pitches, drawing a 1-2 count. He then follJun 8, 2014Jun 8, 201424m36
24mThe Ace Takes the MoundSanada enters the game, revealing a dangerous cutter that effectively neutralizes Seido’s offensive power. Chris observes, puzzled by the omission of Sanada from the initial lineup. The Ichidai players, gradually joining the fray, are astonished to witness Seido’s complete shutdown of Yakusi, who has allowed them to take a 5-1 lead. In the fifth inning, Tanba begins his warm-up in the bullpen, adding another dimension of threat for Seido. Yakusi’s hitters struggle to adjust to the rhythm of SawaJun 15, 2014Jun 15, 201424m37
24mBurst!Sawamura was tasked with pitching one final inning. After two pitches outside the strike zone to Raichi, Sawamura found himself in a precarious count. Miyuki signaled for a high, inside four-seam fastball, hoping to retire Raichi, but the batter connected, sending the ball over the outfield fence and narrowing Seido's lead to 5-3. Following two walks, Sawamura was removed from the game. Yakushi’s batters managed to find wood on Kawakami’s pitches, scoring an additional run. Yet, a spectacular caJun 29, 2014Jun 29, 201424m38
24mRolesWith a resounding crack, the captain sends the ball soaring over the fence against Sanada, and Seido maintains their two-run lead. The bottom of the eighth inning has arrived, and Kawakami is finding his rhythm elusive. Determined to face Tanba in the next contest, he now finds himself in a precarious situation after Raichi is walked and successfully steals second base. Kawakami manages two outs, but Raichi scores, narrowing the gap to 6-5, with runners now on first and third for Yakusi. KataokaJul 5, 2014Jul 5, 201424m39
24mExpectations of an AceTanba advances to the pitcher's mound. Two fastballs have established an 0-2 count in his favor. Miyuki signals for a curveball, but the pitch is low and inside, narrowly avoiding a ball. Miyuki’s skillful adjustment preserves Seido’s one-run lead. Recognizing Tanba’s intention despite his lack of precise control, Miyuki calls for another curve, resulting in Sanada’s strikeout. In the ninth inning, Seido scores two runs, extending their lead to 8-5. Following a double play by Furuya, Kataoka optJul 13, 2014Jul 13, 201424m40
24mThe Winning ShotThe ninth inning unfolds with the intensity of the Seido and Yakushi clash reaching its peak: a pivotal duel between Tanba and Raichi. With the score tied at 2-2, Miyuki finally signals for the forkball to make its first appearance. Will Raichi withstand the unfamiliar pitch, or will the mounting pressure prove too much? Victory secures a place in the semifinals, while defeat prompts reflection on paths to improvement for the coming year. This episode encompasses chapters 116 through 120.Jul 20, 2014Jul 20, 201424m41
24mIt's the SemifinalThe quarterfinal results are displayed, revealing Seido’s semifinal opponent: a formidable pitcher known for his exceptional curveball. Furuya is informed he will be sidelined for the crucial match, the team hoping he can recover from exhaustion. With only a single day remaining, they must prepare for the semifinal. Driven by a desire to aid the team's progress, the senior players raise the pitcher's mound, and the coach takes the role of batter for a unique practice session. As game day dawns,Jul 27, 2014Jul 27, 201424m42
24mThe Giant Looks DownThe contest between Sensen and Seishun commenced. In the fourth inning, Sawamura’s companions arrived to find Seido trailing 1-0. During the inning, Seido began to find their rhythm against Hino's curveball. They managed to load the bases, but a remarkable double play—a fly out followed by a tag at home—kept Seishun scoreless. By the sixth inning, Ryousan reached base. Haruchi was instructed to begin preparing his swing, while Sawamura started his bullpen warm-up. Ryousan then stole home on a grAug 3, 2014Aug 3, 201424m43
24mRevengeWith the score tied at one in the top of the sixth, and the bases loaded, Haruchi entered the batting order for Tanba. Facing a 0-2 count, Haruchi initially found himself at a disadvantage, but Hino’s attempt at a curveball proved costly. Haruchi connected, driving the ball deep into left-center field for a three-run double, extending Seido's lead to 4-1. Sawamura took over pitching duties from Tanba and immediately walked the leadoff batter. A sharp short hit slipped past Ryousan, putting runneAug 10, 2014Aug 10, 201424m44
24mBest PitchThe outcome of the game hinges on the confrontation between Sawamura and Hino. During this pivotal moment, Sawamura refines his technique, developing a new pitch he calls the crossfire. Seido secures a victory with an 8-3 score, though Nori allows an additional run. After a brief reunion with his teammates, Sawamura joins the team as they head indoors to watch the other semifinal. This installment encompasses the latter portion of chapter 131 and the first half of chapter 134.Aug 17, 2014Aug 17, 201424m45
24mFantasyFollowing their victory over Sensen Academy, Sawamura relished the camaraderie of his junior high friends. The second game of the semifinals pitted the tournament favorite, Inashiro Vocational High, against the unexpected contender, Sakurazawa High. Coach Kikukawa declared, "Now is the time to make history!" And so, the game began with an unforeseen start.Aug 24, 2014Aug 24, 201424m46
24mPitching of DespairAs Nagao unleashes his knuckleball against Inashiro, Sakurazawa waits for an opportunity to score. But the pressure begins to fray their composure as they face Narumiya’s relentless fastball. Their steady defense dissolves, and mistakes begin to mount. And, with a cruel twist of fate, Inashiro’s next batter is their cleanup hitter, Harada.Aug 31, 2014Aug 31, 201424m47
24mThat SummerFollowing the game, Narumiya encountered Miyuki. "Do you recall the last time we all gathered?" Carlos inquired, addressing the assembled group of people Narumiya had invited to Inashiro—Miyuki among them.Sep 7, 2014Sep 7, 201424m48
24mAt the DormAfter Seido completed their assessment of Narumiya’s pitching, Yuki spoke of the assurance he felt regarding the upcoming final. His conviction stemmed from the dedication demonstrated by the entire team. Meanwhile, at Inashiro, meticulous preparations were also underway for the crucial game against Seido.Sep 14, 2014Sep 14, 201424m49
24mA Nostalgic FaceThe day before the final game, Sawamura declared his intention to master a breaking ball, a move to address a persistent weakness in his pitching. At that opportune moment, Azuma, a former teammate, arrived to offer his encouragement. Sawamura then began practicing the cutter with Azuma as the batter, taking his place in the box.Sep 21, 2014Sep 21, 201424m50
24mFootsteps to TomorrowWhen the current third-years first arrived, they were known as "the hopeless year." Their seniors had long since abandoned any expectation of success for them, yet the newcomers persevered, practicing with unwavering dedication and a constant stream of mutual encouragement. This diligent effort gradually transformed their competitive spirit into something akin to trust.Sep 28, 2014Sep 28, 201424m51
24mThe Battle Begins!The news struck Sakai with a jarring force: he was removed from the starting lineup for the championship game. Coach Kataoka offered quiet words of encouragement, a steadying presence amidst the disappointment. The team at Seido buzzed with barely contained energy, each victory bringing them closer to nationals, and the anticipation was almost unbearable.Oct 5, 2014Oct 5, 201424m52
24mI Don't Want to LoseNarumiya’s swing connects, sending Yuki flying, and a familiar respect ripples through the Seido team. The incident serves as a stark reminder of Narumiya's formidable power. In the bottom of the inning, Furuya takes the pitcher's mound and immediately establishes dominance with three strikeouts in a row. Narumiya answers, mirroring Furuya’s efficiency with his own trio of strikeouts. The game has settled into a contest of pitching prowess.Oct 12, 2014Oct 12, 201424m53
24mChange GearsWith three innings complete, the final score remains tightly contested. Now, with the cleanup hitter, Yuki, due up, Narumiya shifts his approach. He begins by using the changeup as a lure, then follows with a fastball to strike Yuki out, building momentum for Inashiro. Sensing Narumiya’s focused intensity on Yuki, Seido suffers a disheartening mental setback.Oct 19, 2014Oct 19, 201424m54
24mEntrusted Faith and the Courage to PerformIn the top of the fifth inning, Furuya connects, sending a hit past Narumiya. The opportunity to level the score hangs in the air, and with Shirasu batting ninth, he fouls back Narumiya's fastball. Will Shirasu reach first base? Then, in the bottom of the fifth, the team’s star pitcher, Tanba, steps onto the mound.Oct 26, 2014Oct 26, 201424m55
24mStrong MenWith two outs and the bases overflowing, Tanba manages to spark a rally for Seido. Yet, Narumiya and Harada adjust their pitching, aiming to keep Seido's batters off the scoring plays. As the inning progresses and the Seido players emerge onto the field, Kuramochi calls out to Ryosuke.Nov 2, 2014Nov 2, 201424m56
24mDecisionSeido faces a likely defeat against the formidable Inashiro High. Adding to their woes, Tanba is struck by a cramp in his leg during the seventh inning. Coach Kataoka makes a pitching change, sending Sawamura to the mound. The batter stepping up to the plate is Narumiya!Nov 9, 2014Nov 9, 201424m57
24mReliable UnderclassmenWith three pitches, Sawamura fakes out Narumiya and induces a strikeout. Miyuki’s daring strategy, coupled with Sawamura's unwavering resolve, eases the palpable tension. Seido High School regains its familiar offensive momentum. Now, Furuya steps up to the plate, and Narumiya delivers a blazing crossfire pitch!Nov 23, 2014Nov 23, 201424m58
24mThe Three-HoleSeido takes a run. Replacing Ryosuke as a pinch hitter is Haruichi; the team holds considerable hope for the young player. Inashiro, however, shows no inclination to yield. Narumiya watches Haruichi’s wooden bat with mounting fury. Will he make contact with the next pitch?Nov 30, 2014Nov 30, 201424m59
24mFearlessThe battle narrowed to Yuki against Narumiya. With unwavering focus, Yuki met Narumiya’s changeup, and Seido shifted the momentum of the game. Tanba felt a lump rise in his throat as Yuki connected, while Narumiya struggled to maintain his composure. As the eighth inning began, Sawamura remained on the mound.Dec 7, 2014Dec 7, 201424m60
24mLonely SunWith the score tied at the top of the ninth, Inashiro trails by a single run. Narumiya, contemplating the sting of their national tournament defeat and the trials he’s endured, declares, "I can't imagine us losing." The Inashiro team returns to the field, placing their faith entirely in their meticulous ace pitcher.Dec 14, 2014Dec 14, 201424m61
24mDeterminedThe pressure of pitching in the final inning of a tournament final weighs heavily on Sawamura, a feeling unlike any he's known. Carlos crouches at the plate, willing to absorb any pitch to keep the rally alive. Can Sawamura withstand Carlos’s fierce resolve to secure victory?Dec 21, 2014Dec 21, 201424m62
24mVictory or DefeatA runner poised to score, Harada, Inashiro's cleanup hitter, steps up to the plate. Victory is within reach, yet an unprecedented obstacle remains. With the final timeout granted, the team's star pitcher heads to the field to deliver a message. Can they hold the lead and secure a place at the national tournament? The game concludes.Dec 28, 2014Dec 28, 201424m63
24mLingering FeelingsIn a stunning climax to the ninth inning, Narumiya, Seido’s star batter, salvaged the game. A wave of disbelief washed over the Seido players as they knelt, realizing they had fallen just short of qualifying for the national tournament. Their summer season, so close to triumph, now concluded.Dec 28, 2014Dec 28, 201424m64
24mRestartWith the final loss, a bleakness settles over Seido. Haruichi has retreated to his room, a sense of resignation in his posture. “A part of me had been anticipating this,” Maezono says to him, speaking candidly of his emotions. The weight of Maezono’s words seems to stir something within Haruichi; he rises and reaches for a bat.Jan 11, 2015Jan 11, 201524m65
24mIn The SunTaking the helm as captain, Miyuki declared to the team, "I want us to be relentlessly ambitious in our pursuit of victory." The second-year players, previously dimmed by the presence of their seniors, began to reveal the promise within them for the new season. Yet, Kawakami remained tethered to what was left behind.Jan 18, 2015Jan 18, 201524m66
24mOutsiderThe night preceding the national final, Narumiya bowed his head to his teammates, a gesture that surprised them all. The following day, as Narumiya stepped onto the Koshien mound, he spurred Sawamura to greater effort, watching the televised practice. Later still, an unfamiliar man arrived to observe Seido’s training.Jan 25, 2015Jan 25, 201524m67
24mThe KickThe Seido team is still finding its rhythm. Their practice games have yielded an eight-win, four-loss record, though the batters haven't shown their full potential. Coach Kataoka has agreed to Yakushi’s request for practice matches, hoping to invigorate the team’s spirit. Sawamura is eager, but Miyuki is troubled by a growing sense of lack of command.Feb 1, 2015Feb 1, 201524m68
24mThe Ace TitleAgainst Yakushi, the game unfolded as a battle of pitchers, a surprising turn of events. Furuya retired Raichi, striking him out three times in that inning, and the Seido team witnessed a clear progression in his skill. In the bullpen, Sawamura felt a distinct pressure as Furuya’s burgeoning talent was displayed on the mound.Feb 8, 2015Feb 8, 201524m69
24mCan't LoseThrough six innings, Furuya maintains a perfect score, and the crowd buzzes with anticipation at the prospect of a true ace emerging for Seido. Yakushi sends their star pitcher, Sanada, to the mound, and his very presence seems to unsettle the opposing team. Witnessing both pitchers in action, Sawamura finds himself unable to contain his reaction.Feb 15, 2015Feb 15, 201524m70
24mNext StageHaving allowed three runs without recording an out, Sawamura is pulled from the game. A grim thought crosses his mind: "If I were to leave here like this, I would never..." The memory of that summer final floods back. While Furuya had been captivating on the mound, Sawamura now sits in the dugout, motionless as if lifeless.Feb 22, 2015Feb 22, 201524m71
24mSeptember SkyThe yips have taken a toll on Sawamura, altering him in ways that trouble his teammates. Yet, their belief in his eventual return remains unshaken. Though the team shares his concern, he persists with solitary practice, and with quiet determination, he is gradually rediscovering his passion.Mar 1, 2015Mar 1, 201524m72
24mThe Final LessonDespite their differing perspectives, Coach Ochiai and Coach Kataoka find the team performing admirably as the fall tournament progresses. Meanwhile, Sawamura’s persistent struggle with nerves seems to find an unexpected ally in Chris, who offers the advice, "Practice the low and away." The words reignite Sawamura's resolve.Mar 8, 2015Mar 8, 201524m73
24mInheritanceNews of the coach's resignation leaves the third-year students in stunned silence. Coach Kataoka pushes the current team through the rigorous off-season training regimen, while Maezono offers measured counsel to players who are faltering. Miyuki observes Maezono’s growing reliability with admiration, and she can’t help but wonder at the unspoken tension surrounding Coach Kataoka’s departure.Mar 15, 2015Mar 15, 201524m74
24mGuiding LightNews of Coach Kataoka’s departure unsettled the first and second-year students, leaving them visibly agitated. Isashiki, however, felt no such strain from their performance and offered them a frank assessment.Mar 22, 2015Mar 22, 201524m75
24mIn PursuitWith the score tied at three in the top of the ninth inning, Maezono sends a ball over the fence for a home run. The tension mounts as the bottom of the ninth arrives, and finally, Sawamura is given the opportunity to pitch. Chris, a third-year player, steps up as a pinch hitter, facing his mentor on the mound. Will Sawamura deliver a performance that will earn his teacher's respect?Mar 29, 2015Mar 29, 201524m
