Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Munetaka Murakami and why is he on the Chicago White Sox?
Munetaka Murakami is a 26-year-old Japanese slugger who came to MLB after a legendary career in Nippon Professional Baseball, including two MVP awards and a record-setting 56 home runs in 2022. Skepticism about whether his game would translate against MLB competition is a big reason he ended up with the White Sox.
How did Murakami perform in the first half of the MLB season?
Despite being limited to just 60 games due to a hamstring injury, Murakami put up 20 home runs, 42 RBIs, and a .911 OPS in the first half. That production earned him his first MLB All-Star selection.
What happened to Murakami in the Home Run Derby?
Murakami was eliminated in the first round of the Home Run Derby after hitting nine home runs. He was competing against sluggers like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, who blasted 55 homers in the 2018 Derby alone.
What did Murakami do on The Pat McAfee Show that went viral?
When asked what music he liked, Murakami answered in English — without his interpreter — by saying 'Strokin',' then proceeded to sing along with McAfee, reciting Clarence Carter's lyrics in impressively fluent English.
What are Murakami's goals for the White Sox this season?
Murakami isn't just aiming for the postseason — he's aiming for the World Series. He told reporters the team isn't afraid of anything and that winning is in their blood right now.
Mitchell Kaminski
I’m a Bradley University Sports Communication graduate with five years covering the Chicago White Sox and experience broadcasting for ESPN-partnered Bradley Athletics. I’ve worked as a radio play-by-play announcer in Missouri and currently serve as a TV reporter for ABC 17 News in Columbia.
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