Gary Trundleburry, Shin Seiki Post
07/29/2041: Nagoya, Japan

The following is a leaked transcript of a conversation between Shin Seiki GM Kevin Vail (KV) and Scouting Director Jun Takeuchi (JT):

KV: Is he ready?

JT: He might have some more room to grow, but he’s pretty much there. Hard to argue with the stats too, even if he’s been a bit lucky.

KV: I know all that, but is he READY for this?

JT: Are you sure you can be objective? You wouldn’t be asking this about any other RHP we were thinking about bringing up.

KV: Of course I’m not objective. He’s my top priority. Plus I cashed in a lot of chits to pull off landing him. For his sake and mine, I want him to be in the best possible position to succeed.

JT: I still can’t believe you got away with that.

KV: *shrugs* If LeBron can do it, so can I.

JT: *Stares silently, eyes narrowing*

KV: The fact is that he has talent. We need a starter this week. He’s rested and has been productive all year. He has options to burn.

JT: You could have picked an easier opponent. The Ghosts are All-In on 2041. Plus he’s probably going to square up against Pin.

KV: What better way to make a debut than against one his Uncles’ squads?

JT: You could have picked an easier Uncle-Squad. You have lot’s of options.

KV: True. But we need an arm this week and it’s going to be him. Final decision.

JT: The Ghosts have a righty heavy lineup. Trying to hit a same-handed sidearm delivery coming at you at 98mph is not an easy task. Plus our park is stingy to righties. It could be worse.

KV: I hope this start works out. But either way, I have faith in my Tommy Boy. He’ll figure it out.