Riding a 7-1 start to the 2025 season, the University of Hawaii baseball team is set to wrap up its season-opening 12-game homestand with a four-game series against Northeastern, beginning Friday night at Les Murakami Stadium.
One of the faces of the program over the past two seasons has been two-way standout Itsuki Takemoto. The reigning Cape Cod League MVP from Japan has settled into a rhythm as Hawaii’s designated hitter and Saturday night starting pitcher. But as it turns out, his talents extend beyond the diamond.
The 20-year-old is also a passionate musician, having played the drums for the past 15 years. For Takemoto, music and baseball go hand in hand, both requiring timing, rhythm, and focus.
“I started playing the drums when I was five years old,” Takemoto said.
When asked about the parallels between his two passions, Takemoto acknowledged that music has had a deep impact on his life, including his approach to baseball.
“I think just a little bit. I love music, so it helps 100% with my baseball—and everything in my life,” he said. “Music is 100% of my life.”
While some might dream of a future balancing both baseball and music professionally, Takemoto remains singularly focused.
“Not really,” he said when asked if he ever envisioned playing professional baseball while making music in the offseason. “I just want to be a baseball player. That’s it. Playing the drums is my hobby. Maybe, maybe… but I don’t think it’s possible.”
When reminded that he is already doing what many feel is impossible, both hitting and pitching at the collegiate level, Takemoto smiled before rephrasing his answer.
“Yeah. I mean, if I wanted to, it’s possible, but I just want to focus on baseball. So maybe not.”
For now, Takemoto’s focus remains on leading Hawaii as both a hitter and pitcher.
Takemoto is anticipated to start at pitcher in one of the games against Northeastern and is expected to be in the lineup as a hitter in three of the outings.
First pitch for Game 1 is set for 6:35 p.m. Friday night at Les Murakami Stadium.