Ryan let out a scornful laugh after seeing the smile disappear from Riku's face moments after being struck out. In his eyes, the guy was struggling futilely, with no hope of succeeding.
'I'll show you the difference in our abilities.' He thought, spitting on the ground as he turned around.
"Tch, don't get cocky." Riku muttered, feeling the disdain directed at him from the mound.
For the first time, the usually happy-go-lucky Riku was pissed off. He'd represented the Japanese National Team since middle school, and he'd encounter people like Ryan a few times.
Cocky assholes that look down upon their opponents, at least until they bit back.
As Riku walked back to the dugout, he eyed the new arrivals that had only joined the National Team this year before feeling a small smile creep onto his lips once more.
'I can't wait to see his expression when these guys put him in his place.' He thought in his heart.
"Don't mind, get them next inning." Masayuki said simply, cracking his neck.
"Batting 2nd, Center outfield, Masayuki."
The announcer called his name, prompting him to get into position. He fixed his form before glancing at the catcher briefly. The guy didn't acknowledge him, merely focusing on the mound.
In truth, Masayuki was wary of this guy. A big part of their film session was focused on Leo, the catcher. He was like an emotionless robot, always calling for the most effective plays and executing swiftly.
He shook his head, turning to Ryan on the mound. This guy was another player they'd researched. He was capable of throwing 98-100mph bombs with excellent control.
If Masayuki hadn't met Ken, he might just be impressed.
Before he could think any further, the ball came flying from Ryan's fingertips on an inside course.
PAH
"Strike."
"Hehe, bet he couldn't even see that pitch." Ryan muttered to himself. Though no one could hear his words, his body language outed his arrogant attitude.
Instead of being shocked, Masayuki stood still for a few moments before a grin crept onto his face.
"Hahaha Ken's faster." He said aloud.
Of course no one in the vicinity could understand him, but Ryan could tell that it was nothing good. He narrowed his eyes, taking the gesture as a challenge.
'Let's see if you're still smiling in a few moments.'
Leo calmly assessed the situation as if he were a mere bystander. He crouched down once more and made the call, quickly getting into position.
The next ball came just as fast as the last one, this time outside and away.
WHOOOOSH
DING
Masayuki managed to get his bat to make contact with the ball, yet it screamed along the ground, straight over to the player on 1st base.
He still ran just in case the 1st baseman misfielded it.
However, this was the world stage. None of the players on the field were amateurs, especially on the US team who had such a large talent pool to choose from.
Davion easily scooped up the ball and placed his foot on the base, completing the second out for the United States.
The crowd cheered, sending their applause to the players on the field. With only 2 at bats they were already keeping the lethal Japanese team quiet.
While the ball may have gone straight to the fielder, Leo was slightly taken aback that Masayuki was able to hit the pitch. He believed the ball was sharp enough to evade the bat, yet he still hit it.
Ryan on the other hand gnashed his teeth.
He wanted to crush the Japanese players spirits with 3 consecutive strikeouts, gaining the mental advantage before they came up to bat.
Yet things didn't always go to plan. He quickly adjusted, rolling his shoulders a few times before taking his spot back on the mound.
"Batting 3rd, 1st base, Hiroki."
Hiroki was next up to bat. He'd been given clear instructions how to proceed, yet it wasn't from the coach. He flashed a glance back to the dugout briefly, sending a nod to Daichi and Ken at the entrance.
They sent back a thumbs up, giving him the all clear.
He glanced at Leo, one of the only guys that he'd felt threatened by. Leo's symmetrical and toned muscles could be seen through his tight shirt, showing just how well built the man was.
Leo glanced at Hiroki for a brief moment, his gaze moving up and down over him. Yet in the next moment he let out a small scoff before ignoring him completely.
'Huh!?'
Hiroki was livid. He could tell that the guy had just dismissed him mentally, scoffing at this body that he'd worked so hard for.
Insulting his body was like insulting his soul, it was unforgivable.
Seemingly blowing hot air out of his nose, Hiroki stepped into the batters box, tapping the tip of his bat onto home plate and squaring his shoulders. A look of determination appeared on his face as he lifted his head and faced Ryan.
'I'll force you to acknowledge me.' He said inwardly, gripping his bat tightly.
His eyes were focused, as if he was waiting for something.
Ryan began his wind up, whipping his arm out and sending the ball slinging towards the plate. The ball was fast.
Hiroki's face lit up before he twisted his body. His muscles groaned, stretching tightly as they transferred the strength from his core to the swinging bat.
WHOOOOSH
DONG
Ryan's expression morphed into one of shock as he followed the balls trajectory.
It flew high through the air, into the outfield.
'Damn it!'
Hiroki cursed inwardly as he saw the ball heading towards the center outfield, the one place where he wasn't meant to hit the ball. He was already running towards first base, yet he could see the one that some referred to as the ball magnet.
A fast figure bounded through the field as he chased down the ball in the air.
In one amazing display of athleticism, he leapt into the air and plucked the ball in one fluid motion.