Oh sure, like Fushigidane would've done any better against Basyamo? You seem to be forgetting that Bayleaf is a pretty hefty Pokemon who uses her body weight to her advantage when using Vine Whip and Body Slam (usually combining the two attacks). For this reason, she's a rather ideal choice against fighting-type Pokemon, as we saw in the battle against Shijima. As you said, it all comes down to the writers' decision in the end, and the only reason she was really token out so easily by Hadzuki's Basyamo was because it was apparent the writers were getting the other 5 Pokemon out of the way as quickly as possible so they could make room for Lizardon vs. Basyamo, advertising the upcoming Ruby and Sapphire versions. If it wasn't so rushed, and/or they weren't trying so hard to make Basyamo look good, I can bet you anything that Bayleaf would've put up much more of a fight than she did.
Yay, I'm coming across as an idiot now...I wasn't saying Fushigidane is any better(even though that's my personal belief), and I never said Bayleef is bad battler. I mentioned Fushigidane merely because I felt if anyone should be used for their Vine Whips, it would be him. He was the original Vine Whip user, so...But that's prejudice right there. Bayleef is an awesome Pokemon, I just happen to prefer Fushigidane and Juptile over it. Anyway, regarding your post. I was trying to point out that Bayleef has had losses, too, and that it hasn't always looked good in battle(see battle with Shigeru). Juptile is an excellent battler, and put up a very good fight. But, honestly, would Bayleef or even Fushigidane be able to stand up against being hit by Focus Punch, slamming into the ceiling, and smashing into the ground? Juptile did its best, and Bayleef doing her best is all that can be asked out of her. Keep in mind Hariteyama has been used to grab Satoshi's Ohsubame by the beak in the Houn league; It would probably grab Bayleef or Fushigidane's vines and reel it in or throw it, just like Bashamo, which is why I brought that battle up.
Anyway, now that's off my chest, I'll say something of actual relevence to the episode...
Umm...
I found it funny when Satoshi was standing outside of the Battle Arena yelling Konichiwa, and Enishida walked up behind him, told him he was doing it wrong, and screamed. Great moment right there.
Kogomi was an awesome character-I wish she would have gotten two episodes.
Well, it's on to Hiisu now...this will be interesting.
Cheers!
~Bulby ;001;