What he has going for him is his availability- Shimada can't be on hand nearly as much due to having to work as an observer, commentator, and/or player at official games, but the same can be said of Rei, as well, and he manages to be around relatively often. But is that worth what he lacks in reliability when Shimada is available?
Like I've said before, Hayashida needs to do a lot more growing to be worthy, if he wants any chance with her.