Mix is a story about three siblings: two brothers, Touma and Souichirou, and their younger sister, Otomi. The story takes place 30 years after the events of Touch and features the three siblings as they navigate their own lives and the world of baseball in their own unique ways.
Touma Tachibana is the eldest of the three siblings and the captain of the Meisei High School baseball team. Despite being an excellent pitcher, Touma has a phobia of playing in big games and often freezes up when the pressure is too high. This insecurity stems from the fact that his father, Tatsuya, was a legendary pitcher who led Meisei High School to the national championship 30 years ago. Touma struggles to live up to his father’s legacy, but his love for baseball and his determination to overcome his fears keep him going.
Souichirou Tachibana is Touma’s younger brother and a gifted batter. Unlike Touma, Souichirou is not afraid of big games and thrives under pressure. However, Souichirou’s easy-going nature often gets him into trouble with his coach and teammates, who see him as lazy and unreliable. Souichirou constantly searches for motivation and inspiration to improve his skills and prove his worth to his team.
Otomi Tachibana is the youngest of the siblings and a budding journalist. Although she is not directly involved in baseball, she has a keen interest in the sport and enjoys observing the games and the players. Otomi is a bright and curious girl who often investigates the mysteries and rumors surrounding Meisei High School’s baseball team. Her investigative skills and her honest and caring personality make her a valuable asset to the team and her siblings.
One of the most appealing aspects of Mix is its realistic and relatable characters. Adachi is well-known for his ability to create compelling characters with complex emotions and motivations, and Mix is no exception. The Tachibana siblings are flawed and human, and their struggles and triumphs feel real and genuine.
Another highlight of Mix is its nostalgic and romantic atmosphere. The manga is set in the same universe as Touch and features many of the same characters and locations. The Meisei baseball team, the town of Meisei, and the romantic relationships between the characters are all reminiscent of Touch, and fans of the earlier manga will enjoy revisiting these elements.
Mix is also a well-crafted sports manga that focuses on the technical and strategic aspects of baseball. Adachi’s knowledge and love of the sport is evident in the detailed and realistic descriptions of pitches, batting techniques, and team dynamics. The manga is not only entertaining but also educational for readers who are interested in learning more about the sport.
In conclusion, Mix is a delightful and satisfying manga series that offers an engaging story, memorable characters, and a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere. Whether you are a fan of sports manga or not, Mix is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good story about friendship, family, and overcoming one’s fears and limitations.