After a year of hard work and injury Lansvale United baseballer Mathew Butler is on his way to Japan today.
Mathew, 16, is travelling with his NSW under 16 teammates to contest the World Series over the next 10 days.
The pitcher was confined to playing first base just 10months ago after a shoulder injury restricted how far and fast he could throw.
''After seeing sports doctors and orthopedic specialists we ended up at the physios at least once a week,'' his mother Carol said.
''He's just worked hard in doing his recovery and getting back up to the level he was at before.''
He's now back on the pitcher's mound and ready for a busy month.
Mathew began trialling for major league team the Auburn Orioles yesterday, he'll play in the world series and then return for another Orioles trial.
It is his third trip to Japan to play and he's also notched up games in China and America since 2005.
The NSW team will meet others from Japan, America and China in the competition.
''I know what to expect now,'' Mathew said.
''Japan's A and B squads are probably the best sides in the world.''
The team are looking to beat their sixth placing from last year.
''Every experience is a good one, there's always something new to learn,'' he said.