Jacksonville, FL, December 23, 2025
The Chicago White Sox have signed Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami to a two-year, $34 million contract, aiming to enhance their offensive power. The deal, which includes a signing bonus and performance awards, highlights the team’s commitment to rebuilding and improving their standings in Major League Baseball. Murakami’s impressive track record in Japan, including a record-breaking home run season, positions him as a key player in the team’s future efforts to compete more effectively.
Jacksonville, FL
Chicago White Sox Sign Munetaka Murakami to Two-Year Deal
Team Ups Offensive Power with Japanese Slugger
The Chicago White Sox have made headlines by signing Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami to a promising two-year, $34 million contract. This strategic move not only strengthens the team’s lineup but also reflects the organization’s commitment to revitalizing its performance in Major League Baseball. As the White Sox navigate their rebuilding phase, Murakami’s impressive home run record could be a game-changer for the 2026 season.
With a $1 million signing bonus, Murakami will earn $16 million in 2026 and $17 million in 2027, with potential performance awards adding further value to his compensation. The White Sox are also set to pay a posting fee of approximately $6.58 million to the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, the team he previously played for in Japan.
Contract Details
Murakami’s deal is structured to maximize his contributions to the team. Notably, his salary increases in the second year, reflecting the potential expectations the White Sox have for his performance. The additional performance awards, including $1 million for an MVP award, indicate the organization’s intent to incentivize key achievements while recognizing the player’s past successes.
Player Background
Over his eight seasons with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, Munetaka Murakami established himself as a formidable power hitter, accumulating 246 home runs and 647 RBIs across 892 games. His standout year in 2022, where he set a record for Japanese-born players by hitting 56 home runs, showcases his extraordinary talent. Although an oblique injury limited his participation to 56 games in the 2025 season, he still demonstrated his power with 22 home runs.
Rebuilding the Team
The White Sox are in the midst of a significant rebuilding effort, having finished last in the American League Central with a dismal 60-102 record in 2025. The addition of Murakami, paired with a young core of players such as Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, and Chase Meidroth, aims to inject new life into the team’s performance, potentially paving the way for a more competitive future.
Historic Signing: Japanese Talent in Chicago
Munetaka Murakami’s arrival makes him the fourth Japanese-born player to don a White Sox jersey, following in the footsteps of notable players such as pitcher Shingo Takatsu, second baseman Tadahito Iguchi, and outfielder Kosuke Fukudome. This trend exemplifies the growing international scope of Major League Baseball and the interest in Japanese talent in particular. Notably, Takatsu has previously interacted with Murakami during his managing tenure with the Swallows.
Introduction Press Conference
During his introductory press conference held on December 22, 2025, Murakami shared his excitement about joining the White Sox. His words reflected an eagerness to contribute to the team and engage with fans, signaling a positive outlook as he embarks on this new chapter of his career.
Conclusion
As the White Sox gear up for the upcoming season, the signing of Munetaka Murakami represents more than just a contract; it embodies the team’s ambitions and commitment towards fostering a competitive and vibrant baseball culture in Chicago. As local fans rally behind this new addition, it’s an excellent opportunity for the community to reflect on the importance of supporting growth and innovation, both on and off the field.
FAQ
What is the value of Munetaka Murakami’s contract with the Chicago White Sox?
Munetaka Murakami signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the Chicago White Sox. The deal includes a $1 million signing bonus and escalating salaries of $16 million in 2026 and $17 million in 2027, with potential increases based on performance awards. Additionally, the White Sox owe a posting fee of approximately $6.58 million to the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, Murakami’s former team.
What are Munetaka Murakami’s career achievements in Nippon Professional Baseball?
Over eight seasons with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, Munetaka Murakami accumulated 246 home runs and 647 RBIs in 892 games. His standout year was 2022, when he hit 56 home runs, setting a record for Japanese-born players in Nippon Professional Baseball. Despite an oblique injury limiting him to 56 games in 2025, he still managed 22 home runs.
How does Munetaka Murakami’s signing impact the Chicago White Sox’s rebuilding efforts?
The Chicago White Sox, who finished last in the AL Central with a 60-102 record in 2025, are in the midst of a rebuilding phase. By signing Munetaka Murakami, the team adds a powerful hitter to their lineup, joining a young core of players like Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, and Chase Meidroth. This move aims to revitalize the team’s performance and contribute to their rebuilding efforts.
Who are the previous Japanese-born players who have played for the Chicago White Sox?
Munetaka Murakami becomes the fourth Japanese-born player to join the Chicago White Sox. The previous players are pitcher Shingo Takatsu (2004-05), second baseman Tadahito Iguchi (2005-07), and outfielder Kosuke Fukudome (2012). Notably, Takatsu managed Murakami during his time with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows.
What did Munetaka Murakami say during his introduction press conference with the White Sox?
During his introduction press conference on December 22, 2025, Munetaka Murakami addressed the fans in English, stating, “White Sox Nation, you guys are in my heart,” and concluded with, “Let’s get to work.”
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Value | Two-year, $34 million deal with a $1 million signing bonus and escalating salaries of $16 million in 2026 and $17 million in 2027, plus a posting fee of approximately $6.58 million to the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. |
| Career Achievements | Accumulated 246 home runs and 647 RBIs in 892 games over eight seasons with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, including a record-setting 56 home runs in 2022. |
| Impact on White Sox | Joins a young core of hitters, including Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, and Chase Meidroth, aiming to revitalize the team’s offense during their rebuilding phase. |
| Previous Japanese Players | Becomes the fourth Japanese-born player to join the White Sox, following Shingo Takatsu, Tadahito Iguchi, and Kosuke Fukudome. |
| Introduction Remarks | Expressed enthusiasm during the press conference, addressing fans in English and concluding with, “Let’s get to work.” |
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