White Sox GM reveals solution for Munetaka Murakami's major deficiency

Making the move to the major leagues after enjoying tremendous success in the NPB, slugger Munetaka Murakami was expected to be one of this offseason's hottest comodities.

However, things did not turn out that way. After several teams hesitated to pull the trigger, it was ultimately the Chicago White Sox that signed Murakami to a two-year, $34 million contract on Sunday.

While Munetaka Murakami boasts superb power-hitting ability, his high strikeout rate is a concern. Speaking to Chicago Sports Network's Chuck Garfien on Wednesday, White Sox general manager Chris Getz spoke about how the organization plans to help Murakami iron that issue out of his game.

"You look at recent hitters that have come over and their strike out rates. It's pretty similar. We're talking about guys that have had a lot of success here. So, you look underneath the hood a little bit more," Getz said (Timestamp: 1:00). "Some exposure to velocity, certain types of pitches. Yeah, we've identified that. But we also know that there's an acclimation to Major League Baseball, there's an acclimation to certain types of velocity. "We've got training methods, we've got an infrastructure that could help him. He hasn't been provided what we're able to provide him. We've got a big engine he's operating with. He's got bat speed, he's got strength, he's shown the ability to hit for a unique amount of power. To get him in our door, under the watch of our coaches, we feel like we can really tap into another level."

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"I'm so excited for that reality!" - Munetaka Murakami looks forward to starting his MLB chapter after signing with the Chicago White Sox

Soon after sealing his move to the Chicago White Sox, Munetaka Murakami posted a message to Instagram, expressing his excitement for what's to come.

"As reported, I have signed with the Chicago White Sox. Thank you to all of the people who have helped and coached me since I started playing baseball. To all the ball players, the best teammates, coaches, and coaches that have had my back, I appreciate you! "Here's to another new path, being able to play baseball for the Chicago White Sox, playing baseball on a stage that has always been a dream of being in the major leagues, and now I'm so excited for that reality! Finally, to all the fans who are supporting me in Japan, thank you for your continued encouragement!! Hello Chicago White Sox fans. I look forward to meeting you all," Murakami posted in Japanese.

Chicago White Sox Introduce Munetaka Murakami - Source: Getty

Murakami will make his first appearance in a White Sox uniform once spring training begins in February 2026.

Edited by Raghav Mehta