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The Chicago White Sox made a surprising move by signing Japanese power hitter Munetaka Murakami just before Christmas. Although there was uncertainty about whether the slugger would find a team as his posting window neared its end, Murakami is now set to bring his impressive power to Chicago’s south side.
In this episode of Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jake Mintz teams up with guest host Dani Wexelman to analyze Murakami’s two-year, $34 million contract, highlighting the significance of this deal for the two-time Central League MVP and discussing what being a free agent at age 28 could mean for him. They also examine several other key baseball transactions, including the Boston Red Sox acquiring catcher Willson Contreras from the St. Louis Cardinals, the New York Mets parting with a longtime player, and a complex three-team trade. Additionally, they cover the Athletics extending Tyler Soderstrom’s contract and the San Diego Padres re-signing Michael King before wrapping up with their next league draft pick and reflections on the season’s ups and downs.
Timestamps:
– 1:28 – Opening discussion: Murakami joins the White Sox
– 20:32 – Leaguewide update: Red Sox trade for Contreras
– 30:10 – Mets trade Jeff McNeil
– 36:20 – Breakdown of a three-team trade
– 48:28 – Turbo Mode: Signings and contract extensions
– 57:23 – The Good, the Bad, and Agra segment
Watch the full episode on and explore more from the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or on yahoosports.tv.
Fan Take:
This unexpected signing of Murakami could alter the balance of power in the American League, injecting fresh excitement into the White Sox lineup. For baseball fans, moves like these signal a growing willingness among MLB teams to invest in international talent, which enriches the game and expands its global appeal.
