Ep 7. A Gradual Change

The Japanese anime series, Big Windup! (Original Japanese Version) season 2 episode 7 is titled "A Gradual Change." The episode follows the adventures of Ren Mihashi, a timid pitcher who transfers to a new school and joins the baseball team. Ren struggles to find his place on the team and to overcome his anxiety and self-doubt.

In this episode, Ren and the team are preparing for their upcoming game against Yakushi High School, one of the toughest opponents they will face. Ren is feeling the pressure to perform well, but he is also excited to see how much he has grown and improved since the beginning of the season. He is also eager to show his former teammates from his old school what he is capable of.

As the team continues to practice, Ren begins to notice that something is different. The infield is making plays more smoothly, and the outfielders are tracking down balls that they used to miss. Ren realizes that his own pitching has improved as well. He is able to control his fastball and curveball better, and he is throwing more strikes.

Ren talks to the team's catcher, Takaya Abe, about his observations. Takaya tells him that he has been working on his own improvement, studying game footage and practicing with the other players. He also encourages Ren, telling him that he has the potential to be a great pitcher and a valuable member of the team.

As Ren reflects on his progress, he realizes that the changes have not happened overnight. It has been a gradual process of learning and growing, of pushing himself to get better every day. He is proud of himself for the hard work he has put in, and he is excited to see what he can achieve in the upcoming game.

The episode ends with Ren and the team taking the field for their game against Yakushi High School. Ren is nervous but determined, ready to show off his improved skills and help his team win. The game promises to be intense and exciting, with both teams fighting hard for the victory.

Overall, "A Gradual Change" is a compelling episode that focuses on the theme of improvement and growth. Ren's character arc is particularly well-developed, as he learns to overcome his anxiety and self-doubt and to embrace his role on the team. The episode also features plenty of thrilling baseball action, as the team prepares for its toughest challenge yet. Fans of the series will surely be eager to see what happens next and how Ren and his teammates will fare in their upcoming game.