A two-way player from the University of Hawaii found his way into a prestigious college summer baseball league.
Right-hander Itsuki Takemoto was named the winner of the Whitehouse Award as the best pitcher in the Cape Cod Baseball League.
“It’s cool, I’m so happy… so excited,” said Takemoto, who was born and raised in Japan.
With the Orleans Firebirds this summer, Takemoto was 3-1 with a 0.71 ERA and a 0.75 WHIP. He averaged 8.2 strikeouts per nine innings.
“This is great for Itsuki and his career,” said UH coach Rich Hill. “It’s one of the most prestigious amateur awards a pitcher can get. And it’s great for the University of Hawaii baseball program.”
Hill, who coached in the league for four years, “gained the trust of those coaches by bringing our guys to the Cape League. … I don’t recommend anyone go there unless I know they’re going to be successful. It’s been a great relationship.”
In 2024, Takemoto’s first season with the Rainbow Warriors, he went 3-1 with 37 strikeouts in 37 1/3 innings. He posted a .313 batting average in four games as a designated hitter.
Takemoto was used exclusively as a pitcher in the Cape Cod League. His fastball reached 95 mph, while his average was 91-92 mph. His repertoire also included curveball, slider, cutter, changeup and split.
“Great experience,” said Takemoto. “I loved it. … Everything was good.”
In an area known for clams and lobster, Takemoto discovered another culinary passion. “Burritos,” Takemoto said. “I love Mexican food.”
Hill said Takemoto will now join the Portland Pickles in time for the West Coast League playoffs this weekend. Takemoto will be used as a left fielder or designated hitter. “No pitching for him,” Hill said. “We’ve assigned him to do that.”
Takemoto returns to Hawaii later this month. UH’s fall semester begins Aug. 26.
UH outfielder and first baseman Ben Zeigler-Namoa hit .311 with three home runs in 33 games for Orleans this summer.
UH centerfielder Matthew Miura is playing for the La Crosse Loggers of the Northwoods League this summer. His .369 batting average is the best on his team and he has scored 61 runs in 52 games.
