A few hours later, Daichi and Ken arrived at Publix Field for the Detroit Ligers Spring Training. Ken had already been to Lakeland Florida before during his College days, but this was the first time as a pro.
Upon arrival at the locker room, Ken saw a few familiar faces, but like the first time he met the team, no one looked all that interested in him.
‘I guess it makes sense, many of the people who attend Spring Training won’t even get a spot on the roster before the season starts.’ He thought.
His eyes roamed around the locker room and found a couple of empty ones. He nudged Daichi and made his way over, placing his bag down.
The two silently got dressed and ready. The uniform they’d been given was the familiar white jersey with the blue D on the chest. However, it didn’t have his name or number on it.
This might seem normal, but Ken believed there was more to it than that. He felt like this was the organization telling him that just because he was drafted, didn’t mean he had a free pass into the team just yet.
However, that didn’t affect him. To Ken, this just fueled the fire even more.
Just as he had finished getting changed, a figure arrived into the locker room.
“Here he is!”
“I like your boot, where can I get one?”
Some laughter broke out, getting Ken’s attention. He turned and was surprised to see Jason the starting catcher with the mustache walking in with crutches. On his right leg was a moon boot, it was clear that the guy was injured.
Ken’s eyes widened. He had not heard that the man was injured. His eyes moved to Daichi briefly, realizing why he had been invited to the Spring Training.
Ken felt a little bad for Jason, but his injury was an opportunity for Daichi to make it to the main roster. If he was able to prove himself, he could take over the starting catcher position for good.
“Daichi… That’s the starting catcher for the Ligers. I think you know what that means.” Ken said softly in Japanese.
Daichi caught on quick. He nodded, “You don’t have to tell me, big bro… I’ll earn the spot.”
‘Good… He won’t let this chance slip by.’ Ken thought.
It was then that Jason’s eyes fell upon Ken and their gazes met.
“Oh? You’re finally here Ken.” Jason said, making his way over slowly with the crutches.
Ken bowed slightly, “I’m sorry to see that you’re injured Jason.” He replied respectfully, though it might not have been the full truth.
“These things happen.” Jason said wearing a small smile. “Our roster is looking rather weak at the moment, so it’s good to see you’re getting called up to Spring Training. Make sure you do your best.”
“Our roster is weak?” Ken asked, tilting his head in question.
Jason wore a wry smile, “Well I’m injured and we couldn’t resign two of our pitchers in the off season. Ultimately, its the best time for you to make the jump from the minor league.”
“I see…” Ken responded, though his mind was working the background.
‘This seems too convenient…’ he thought silently. Of course he wasn’t complaining, but Ken felt like something else was at play.
‘Did Mika do this?’
“Who is this?” Jason asked, pointing to Daichi.
“I’m Daichi Takagi, Ken’s younger brother. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Daichi replied, bowing his head slightly in greeting.
His English was surprisingly much better than it was last season, though some words sounded a little awkward from his mouth and he was very formal.
“Oh? Well it looks like you have a talented family.” Jason replied, “Are you also a pitcher?”
Daichi shook his head, a small grin forming on his face. “I’m a catcher.”
Jason’s expression stiffened, but he let out a laugh a moment later, patting Daichi on the shoulder. “Good good. Maybe you can keep my spot warm for me… If you make it past the roster cuts.” He said, sending him a wink.
“Anyway, good luck out there.” He said before hobbling away on his crutches.
Ken watched his retreating figure and smiled. He could see that despite being chummy on the surface, Jason was filled with competitive spirit.
“This is a good opportunity for us to make the team, we can’t fall short.” Ken said in Japanese.
“Don’t worry big bro…”
The two left the locker room and walked out onto the field. Thanks to the fact they were in Florida, the sun was actually warm despite it still being winter. If they had been in Detroit, there would probably be snow on the field still.
Ken scanned the field and saw the tall figure of his Grandfather chatting to some of the other staff members. He resisted the urge to go and greet him and instead began to go through some dynamic warm ups alongside Daichi to get their muscles warm.
“How are you feeling?” Ken asked his brother.
“Still a little jet lagged, but my body is fine.” He admitted, “You?”
“I’m cool as a cucumber.” Ken said, sending him a wink.
Despite seeing one of the alternate universes in his sleep last night, the sleep protocol skill still did its job. His mind was refreshed and his body felt in good shape, there were no excuses to not play well today.
“Ken!”
Ken heard his name called out from the other end of the field. He turned his head, only to see a familiar figure with a square jaw and small goatee jogging over to him.
Ken’s eyes lit up with surprise, not expecting to see the man here.
“Rohan?”
Rohan slapped Ken on the back and sent him a grin, his green eyes dancing with amusement at seeing his shocked expression.
“Don’t look so surprised man, I told you I’d see you in 6 months.” He said, letting out a hearty laughter. His usual cold atmosphere was nowhere to be seen.