Munetaka Murakami joins Chicago White Sox after successful NPB career
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 28, 2026, 4:00 PM
Last updated Sep 28, 2026
Munetaka Murakami has signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the Chicago White Sox for the 2026 season after a record-setting run in Nippon Professional Baseball. The infielder, who hit 56 home runs in 2022 for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, quickly made an impact in the MLB by hitting a rookie-record 20 home runs before June. His presence is expected to be crucial as the White Sox aim for postseason success. Meanwhile, Nippon Professional Baseball faces challenges as its top stars increasingly move to MLB, affecting the league's standing and competitive balance.
- •Murakami hit 56 home runs in 2022 with the Swallows.
- •He became the second Japanese player to participate in the Home Run Derby.
- •NPB retains a strong fanbase, drawing over 25 million spectators annually.
- •A complex posting system regulates player movement between NPB and MLB.
- •NPB clubs often post players for business reasons while managing player aspirations.
- 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — Japanese Baseball Is Fighting Back Against MLB Talent Drain
"Nippon Professional Baseball is reimagining how to be a global juggernaut.
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