Japanese third baseman Munetaka Murakami is set to join the Chicago White Sox, according to the team’s announcement on Sunday, with CBS Sports confirming a two-year deal worth $34 million. This contract is notably lower than Murakami’s initial expectations and highlights a subdued market for his talents, especially when compared to the $90 million deal given to Masanao Yoshida by the Boston Red Sox three years ago. Despite this, Murakami’s contract remains the highest ever for a Japanese position player.
Turning 26 in February, Murakami has been one of the best power hitters in Japan, even managing 22 home runs in just 56 games in 2025 after recovering from elbow surgery and an oblique injury. He has averaged 42.6 home runs per a 162-game season for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, who posted him to MLB this offseason through the posting system.
CBS Sports ranked Murakami as the 7th best free agent this offseason, noting both his elite power—highlighted by his 2022 record-breaking 56 home runs, surpassing Sadaharu Oh’s mark—and his significant strikeout issues. Despite a strikeout rate above 28% for three straight seasons and questions about his defensive fit, likely moving to first base, his youth and power potential make him a valuable asset. His signing is also subject to a posting fee paid to the Swallows, around $6.5 million, calculated based on his contract’s value.
Three key points about Murakami’s contract include: 1) Concerns about his high strikeout rate and defensive limitations limit his market appeal. 2) The White Sox’s infield, including Murakami at first base along with Colson Montgomery, Miguel Vargas, Chase Meidross, and Lenin Sosa, could generate significant power numbers. 3) Other notable Japanese free agents, such as pitcher Tatsuya Imai and infielder Kazuma Okamoto, continue to remain available, with their signing deadlines fast approaching.
Fan Take: This signing is a big moment as it highlights the increasing but still challenging transition for top Japanese hitters into MLB. Murakami’s arrival could signal a new era of power hitting for the White Sox and deepen the league’s talent pool from Japan, adding excitement and global interest to the game.
