From Tokyo to Long Beach City College, right-handed pitcher Daiki Arimoto has brought his game overseas to continue his baseball career in the United States.
Arimoto said he first started playing baseball in second grade after being introduced to the sport by his friends.
Now pitching at a college level, Aiamoto has had to adjust both on and off the field after making the move from Japan. Arimoto also spent the summer playing baseball in Kansas City, where he said the adjustment between states was even more noticeable than the transformation from Japan.
On the field, Arimoto said the level of competition in the U.S. surprised him.
“American players are bigger and stronger, the ball comes off the bat harder,” Arimoto said.
Because of that, Arimoto has had to adjust his pitching styles. He now relies more on breaking balls and focuses more on pitching placement when facing hitters.
“The difference between baseball in Japan and the U.S. is very different, practices in Japan are much longer, often lasting all day and focusing heavily on discipline and conditions. It’s more of a lifestyle in Japan,” Arimoto said.
One of the biggest differences, he said, has been his everyday life.
While the lifestyle adjustment has been manageable, balancing classes and baseball has been more difficult. As an international student, Arimoto takes all his classes in person while also balancing practice and games.
Communication has been a challenge at times, especially during games when he must quickly understand signs under pressure.
Despite the challenges, Arimoto has found his place with the Vikings baseball team.
“He’s a really funny guy and a jokester, Daiki is really fun to be around,” said his teammate Ben Howard.
Coach Visico said his first impression of Daiki was that he was quiet, but that quickly changed.
“He carries himself with poise,” Coach Visico said. “He gets along with the guys and he’s someone you want to have on your team.”
Off the field, Arimoto said he misses home, especially the food.
“Japanese food here is not good, the only good food here is In-N-Out,” Arimoto said
Arimoto said he chose to come to the United States not only for baseball but also for the environment and hopes to build a future here.
