: During a game, Sawamura struggles immensely, conceding three runs without recording a single out. His usually aggressive inside pitches are wide and erratic.
: His rival, who steps up as the primary force on the mound, highlighting the widening gap between them. Diamond no Ace Episode 70
This episode serves as the transition from the "Summer of Heartbreak" to the beginning of Sawamura’s long road to recovery. : During a game, Sawamura struggles immensely, conceding
: Coach Kataoka notices Sawamura's distress and pulls him from the game. Furuya takes the mound, bluntly telling Sawamura that there is "no need for two pitchers on the mound," further deepening Eijun's sense of failure. This episode serves as the transition from the
: Though largely in a mentorship role now, his presence remains vital as fans anticipate him helping Sawamura rebuild from this slump.
In of Diamond no Ace (titled "Next Stage"), the story focuses on the emotional and physical aftermath of the Summer Finals, where Eijun Sawamura hits a psychological breaking point . The Core Story: Facing the "Yips"
: The catcher, who recognizes Sawamura's psychological trauma and discusses the path forward with the coach.