"Kenta, if Mitsuo can't hit a safe hit, I'll rely on you for the next at-bat."
"Oh... Understood, Coach, I'm heading down now..." Yagaki Kentaro looked dejected, ready to take off his batting gear—until then, his brain belatedly processed what Mr. Izumi had just said.
"Huh? Coa... Coach, you're not planning to substitute me?" His voice trembled a bit, clearly moved at the moment.
Izumi Minoru gave him an exasperated glance, then said:
"Nonsense, if I replace you, who do I send to bat? Is there anyone on the team with better batting skills than you right now?"
"Brat, if you feel grateful, return the favor to the whole team by hitting the ball well when you're on the field."
"Rest assured, Coach! This time, I guarantee I'll complete the task!" Feeling the trust from his coach and teammates, Yagaki Kentaro gave a crisp salute to Izumi Minoru.
Izumi Minoru was amused by his serious demeanor and laughed, saying, "Alright, brat, stop acting up—go prepare well now!"
"Yes, Coach!"
