In the three-game series against the Shikoku Islands, I didn't get a chance to play in the second game and only came in as a pinch runner for Thomas, who reached base on a walk in the third game. (Iida took over as the substitute defender.) Haratani didn't participate in any more events after his debut.
Next up was a three-game series at home against the Tokyo Chariots. Haratani and I had not yet been demoted to the second team and were still with the first team.
When I arrived at Suruga Ocean Stadium, Coach Kimitsu informed me that I would be in the starting lineup for the next day's match. Coincidentally, the opposing team's scheduled starting pitcher was the same as my first start, pitcher Takita. Since I've faced him before, I have a better idea of his ball's trajectory. That might be why I'm in the lineup.
*This is my chance to get my first professional hit. I need to make it count.*
In my hotel room, I watched videos of pitcher Takita over and over again, visualizing myself hitting the ball.
The next day was a Friday night game. I arrived at the stadium early, just before noon, and with the help of the team staff, I went for some extra batting practice.
*You might not get another chance like this. Make it count.*
For night games, players and management begin to gather around 1:00 p.m. To ensure I didn't lose my feel, I practiced my swing carefully in front of the mirror in the training room.
The whole team practiced from 2 p.m. I took grounders at second base, checking the field conditions and how the ball bounced. This was all part of the pre-game routine.
The starting lineup for the day was announced at the team meeting after practice.
"Second baseman, Takahashi Takashi."
My name was called. *Seriously?* I expected to be in the lineup, but as the leadoff batter? My entire body trembled. No matter how much you try to act composed, it's impossible not to be nervous.
I locked myself in the training room again and practiced my batting swing with all my might. If I didn't do this, the pressure would crush me.
*I can hit it. I can hit it. I can hit it.*
I repeated this words to myself in the mirror, It helps me release tension and feel energized.
Eventually, Tokyo Chariot's pre-match practice ended, and the start time of the match approached. In preparation for the top of the first inning, I jumped and stretched behind the bench, trying to keep my excitement in check. At times like these, you just have to believe in yourself.
The starting pitcher for the Shizuoka Oceanians was Kitaoka, a right-handed pitcher who had four wins (six losses) so far.
Sakai, the Chariots' leadoff hitter, connected with a low fastball, sending a double to left-center field. Kitaoka had a fast ball, but his control could falter at crucial moments.
The second batter, right fielder Okatani, was known for his speed and defensive prowess, but he could also pack a punch. He lined a changeup between second and shortstop. I dove, gambling on a risky catch.
*Did I get it?*
I felt the ball enter the tip of my glove. Quickly, I got up and tossed it to Nitta, covering second base. Sakai had run too far.
"Out!"
A double play. The big crisis vanished in an instant. Cheers erupted, and the light blue seats of Shizuoka Oceans fans shook.
"Good job, Takahashi."
"Nice play."
I took off my hat, acknowledged the cheers, and returned to my position. The third batter, Kaku, grounded out to third base, ending the inning without any runs.
As I returned to the bench, pitcher Kitaoka greeted me, and we touched gloves. *Now it's my turn to bat.*
The leadoff batter's role is to get on base, no matter what. I wanted to get on base, especially since I had faced pitcher Takita before and had an idea of his pitches.
First pitch. A slider, just as expected. I focused on hitting with my right hand and made good contact.
*Will it go over the second baseman's head?*
I ran hard. Okatani charged forward.
*Fall, please fall.*
Okatani dove. *Did he get it?* I ran around first base, looking at the umpire.
"Out."
The umpire's right hand was raised. Okatani had caught the ball with the tip of his glove. It was a spectacular play. If he had missed, it could have been a triple or even an inside-the-park home run.
I looked up at the sky. *They won't let you get your first hit easily.* But I felt it coming. *It's about time I hit one.*