A Beer Vendor Gal Offers ASMR Service at the Stadium!? Anime "The Catcher in the Ballpark!" Premiere Leaves Viewers Saying, "Falling into the Vendor Trap" and "So Jealous"

The new anime "The Catcher in the Ballpark!", which depicts the interactions of people gathered at a ballpark, premiered on April 1st. The thrilling scene where Ruriko, a gal beer vendor (voiced by Fairouz Ai) cheers right into the ear of a salaryman, has captivated viewers. Comments such as "What!? This service!? So jealous!" and "Ruriko's whispering is ASMR" have flooded online discussions.

In Episode 1, titled "Ruriko-san the Beer Vendor," Ruriko approaches Murata, a salaryman (voiced by Satoshi Inomata), quietly watching the game alone at the stadium. She asks him, "Why aren't you cheering with the support group?" To which Murata responds, "It feels presumptuous for a lowly salaryman like me to tell professional athletes to 'do your best.' I don't think they need my cheers as a stranger..."

Ruriko retorts, "You're too cynical!" and then says, "Well then, why don't we give it a try?" as she leans closer to Murata's ear. She whispers, "Do your best," "Thanks for your hard work. You did well today. Go! Go! Fight!" Moreover, Ruriko, noticing Murata blushing, smiles and asks, "Even though we're strangers, did you mind?" and assures him, "I think your cheers do reach the players."