Story (9): A key concept to this anime is applying business theory to managing a baseball team. For example "Marketing" is useful to the team because people can find beneficial interactions (e.g. joint practice with track team). I think this concept is executed well enough though. It is slow but every development makes sense. The pacing actually reminds me more of cross game than one outs or major although there is little if any romance in Moshidora. Perhaps this is a side effect from being an adaptation to a novel. Nonetheless, this plot driven anime accomplished so much more than most anime do in a full season.
Art(7): The art is average, nothing good or bad really drew my attention.
Sound(6): I did not like the strange soundtrack played when the anime explained Drucker's theory. The ED was soothing albeit a little forgettable. The OP is similar in style, but by the end of the anime, it will really grow on you.
Character(8): The main character has a sense of depth as of the 5th episode. We don't really get too close to any other character, but the anime does a good job of characterizing all more important characters, and they are all likable enough. It reminds me of Ookiku Furikabutte in a way, although it definitely does not have as much focus on the actual mechanics of the game.
Enjoyment(7): I liked this anime to be honest. It is a breath of fresh air to action oriented or gag/comedy anime.
*Edit* I've finished this anime since I wrote this review, and I have to say the latter episodes have been much better. The slow buildup in the introductory is paying off. We see the fruits of the team's efforts as they dukes it out in the summer tournament. In the end though I think this anime sends out a message that Drucker's business philosophy isn't complete by itself. We are human beings and the memories we make during our lives are just as important as the results we see.
This anime was quite enjoyable to me. If you didn't mind the meticulous pacing in Cross game and a focus on plot and the characters, chances are you'll also enjoy this anime.
