I’m enjoying this season just like last season. I liked a lot of the new characters too! I think they did a great job of building the story and adding a few new elements from the first season.
It took me a while to get used to the new team, but I like them. I still really miss the third years but I’m glad they show up occasionally.
In the first season, I liked Mei but thought that he was way too cocky. I wanted their team to lose so he could get a second humbling, but that didn’t happen. They lost nationals, but he wasn’t as hard on himself. They did really well but again he was overconfident before the finals. He really got a cold and blunt wake up call from the coach during their first fall game. I was shook with every word he said, but it’s true. It doesn’t matter that the team basically had a roster of star players, most of the team were playing for themselves and not as a team. Mei’s greed got him and compromised the team. It was actually quite satisfying even though I was not expecting it to go that way. Bad habits die hard.
Ochiai was annoying as ever for most of the season, but it was so satisfying seeing everyone continue to prove him wrong. By seeing the players exceed his expectations after giving tips to how Coach Kataoka makes such an impact of them slowly changes Ochiai.
I really appreciate best boy Nabe! He’s such a precious cutie! I’m glad he found something he enjoys while being appreciated. It’s definitely a difficult thing to suddenly lose passion or motivation for something you’ve worked hard for. It’s also tough confronting others about it, but he did a great job overcoming his fears.
I’ve always loved Miyuki and seeing him grow as a captain was nice to see. He wasn't perfect, but tried his best. Zono and Kuramochi helped him too and were just as important.
I loved seeing Sawamura growth. He has faced so many obstacles but overcame them. He really did so well! Despite knowing his weaknesses and that there are others who are better, he doesn’t lose his positive attitude. It motivates him to do better and to be open to suggestions. I also love the animal nicknames he start giving everyone. I just was upset that people often overlook his hard work and growth. I don’t know why people kept losing their faith or was too nervous about him pitching when he proved so often that he has changed for the better. It’s a little annoying that they focus on other players and forget what he was achieved. He didn’t even make that many mistakes during the season. To me he seemed more like the ace and I’m waiting for that to happen in season 3! The ace title is more than just skill. He’s gotten more mature, but I still love his goofy side. Both really helped bring the team up and put their trust in him.
