Ep 5. I Want To Play Ball

As the spring tournament approaches, the Nishiura baseball team is feeling the pressure to train harder and better than ever before. In episode 5 of season 2, entitled "I Want To Play Ball," the team struggles to adjust to a new batting machine that is meant to help improve their batting skills. Despite being anxious about using the machine, the team is determined to work hard and improve their performance.

The episode delves into each of the players' anxieties and motivations, with each character experiencing their own struggles as they try to adapt to the new machine. The team's captain, Mihashi, is especially concerned about the machine, as he worries that it will disrupt his carefully honed pitching technique.

Meanwhile, Tajima and Hanai each work to overcome their own limitations in order to become better batters. Tajima aims to improve his swing, while Hanai focuses on becoming more consistent with his hits.

As the team navigates their challenges, they receive some valuable advice from their coach, Momoe. She encourages them to focus on their own individual goals, rather than comparing themselves to their teammates. This advice helps the team to work together more effectively, pushing each other to improve without becoming overly competitive or critical.

The episode also explores the team's ongoing rivalry with their opponents from Tosei High School. The Nishiura team is determined to beat Tosei in the upcoming tournament, but they know that they will need to work hard in order to beat such a strong team.

In addition to the team's ongoing training and preparation, "I Want To Play Ball" features some light-hearted moments as well. The team members bond over their shared love of food, with several scenes showing them eating together or discussing different types of cuisine.

Overall, this episode of Big Windup! offers a compelling look at the challenges that face high school athletes as they work to improve their skills and succeed in the competitive world of sports. With its mix of drama, humor, and inspiring moments, it's sure to leave viewers wanting more.