playing in 5 games at third base and DH. He amassed 3 hits over 9 at-bats, including one double. Nippon Professional Baseball Hiroshima Carp (2004–2005) In 2004 he joined the Hiroshima Toyo Carp . At first, the signing did not attract much attention before the opening of the season. It was cheaper signing, with the Carp obtaining a middle of the order hitter that can hit the ball to all fields. When the season began, he maintained a high batting average and hit 26 homers in the first half. In the second half LaRocca did not slow down, reaching the batting average of .328, 40 home runs, 101 RBI, ranking fifth place in all three batting groups. LaRocca's .328 average was second in the league. However, he recorded 66 strikeouts for the season. In 2005 LaRocca batted 4th from the beginning and kept high batting average, but an injury to his hand caused his season to be cut to only 80 games. However, he managed to hit .303 with 18 home runs and 56 RBI. On November 18, 2005, LaRocca, along with Tom Davey , Kenny Rayborn were designated for assignment, then traded to the Yakult Swallows. Yakult Swallows (2006) In 2006, Yakult formed a strong central axis with teammates Alex Ramirez , Adam Riggs and LaRocca. The nickname "F-Brothers" was attached to the three foreign fielders by fans. The 2006 season was a success, but was sidelined in August with a knee injury that required surgery. That season, LaRocca played 103 games, batted .285, 18 home runs. On December 1, LaRocca became a free agent. He then joined the Orix Buffaloes who wanted a reliable middle of the order batter. Orix Buffaloes (2007–2010) For the 2007 season, LaRocca was appointed the starting third baseman and number 3 hitter in the order. Through the first few weeks of May, he hit .300 with 17 home runs. LaRocca broke the 55-year old NPB record of hit-by-pitches in a single season with 28. In 2008, LaRocca he complained of right elbow pain, and did not play after May 5. On May 28, the team announced that LaRocca had undergone reconstructive surgery of his right Ulnar Collateral Ligament, also known as Tommy John surgery. This surgery caused his season to come to an end, and the Buffaloes considered releasing LaRocca. In 2009, LaRocca renegotiated his contract and took a substantial salary reduction and