Munetaka Murakami, the 25-year-old Japanese power hitter who blasted 24 home runs in just 69 games last season, has joined the Chicago White Sox in a two-year, $34 million contract.
A New Powerhouse for the White Sox
According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman and other reports, the White Sox will sign Murakami to a two-year deal worth $34 million. ESPN’s Jeff Passan says the club expects the former Yakult star to play first base. The move gives the team a major new offensive weapon as it looks to move beyond back-to-back 100-loss seasons.
Murakami’s Career Highlights
Murakami’s 2025 season with Yakult was hampered by injury, yet he still hit 24 home runs and drove in 52 runs. Over his eight-year career, he has accumulated 265 home runs and stolen 76 bases in 1,003 games, posting a slash line of .273/.394/.550.
His breakout year came in 2022, when he hit 56 home runs and tallied 134 RBIs. That season, he posted a .458 on-base percentage and an OPS of 1.168, leading the Central League.
The White Sox’s Rebuilding Context
The White Sox’s offense will rely heavily on young hitters as they rebuild. Key players expected to contribute include Colston Montgomery, Kyle Teel, and Brandon Montgomery. Manager Will Venable will guide the squad through the transition.
The club hopes that Murakami’s power and experience will help the offense improve while the team continues to develop its young talent.
Key Takeaways
- Munetaka Murakami signs a two-year, $34 million deal with the White Sox.
- The former Yakult player is expected to play first base.
- Murakami’s 2025 stats: 24 HR, 52 RBI in 69 games.
- Career totals: 265 HR, 76 stolen bases in 1,003 games.
- 2022 breakout: 56 HR, 134 RBI, .458 OBP, OPS 1.168.
The signing marks a significant step for the White Sox as they aim to strengthen their lineup and accelerate the rebuilding process under manager Will Venable.
