Munetaka Murakami’s introductory press conference offered a clear look at why he chose the White Sox—and why the organization believes he can be a cornerstone of what comes next.
On Monday morning, the Chicago White Sox hosted a press conference from Rate Field to introduce their newest star.
Munetaka Murakami, a 25-year-old Japanese slugger, signed a two-year, $34 million contract over the weekend. He arrives in Chicago as a former Rookie of the Year, two-time MVP, Triple Crown winner, and the single-season home run leader in Nippon Professional Baseball.
White Sox fans had been monitoring Murakami’s situation all offseason, but his signing still came as a surprise to much of the baseball world.
During Murakami’s introductory press conference, however, it became clear why he wanted to be on the South Side—and why the White Sox feel confident they’ve landed baseball’s next superstar.
Here are my biggest takeaways from Murakami’s introductory press conference:
1. The Agent Relationship Paved the Way for the Deal
Murakami is represented by Casey Close and Excel Sports Management.
Close is one of the premier agents in the sport, representing players such as Cal Raleigh, Kyle Tucker, George Springer, Dansby Swanson, Kyle Schwarber, and White Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi, among others.
The organization’s relationship with Close played a significant role in getting this deal across the finish line. The two sides had already worked together to make Benintendi the highest-paid player in White Sox history, creating a foundation of trust.
According to Chris Getz, that relationship made it easier to communicate the organization’s vision to Murakami.
“We’ve got a very strong working relationship with them that allowed us to get this to the finish line," said Getz. "They represent players that are in our clubhouse. They understand where we're headed and what the Chicago White Sox are about. And with that understanding, we were able to relay that message to Mune. When Mune learned more about who we were and where we’re headed, he wanted to be a part of it.”
These types of relationships will be essential as the White Sox continue working to improve their standing throughout the league.
It’s also why the club recently hired former Rays executive Carlos Rodriguez as an assistant general manager. Rodriguez is widely respected around baseball, and one of his primary responsibilities will be strengthening relationships with players and agents alike.
In this case, an existing relationship—and the reputation of Getz—helped Chicago land an international superstar.
2. Murakami Aligns Perfectly With the White Sox Clubhouse Culture
Murakami is going to fit right in with the White Sox, even as the only Japanese player on the roster.
Outside of a few surface-level connections—such as facing recently signed Anthony Kay in Japan over the last two seasons—his age, energy, and mindset align seamlessly with this clubhouse.
Murakami wasn’t fixated on contract length. His goal in coming to Major League Baseball was to find the right fit, and he believes the White Sox are a team that can help him continue to grow as a player.
“Talking to Mune and his representative…knowing that we had a young group, a hungry group that loves to work and loves to play, this was a place where he can come in here and just be himself. Get comfortable. Establish yourself at the major league level," said Chris Getz.
Murakami echoed that same mentality when he spoke through a translator.
“My goal is to win, continuously grow, and to continuously challenge myself. No matter who the opponent is, I am always willing to take the challenge on, and I will never give up. I will contribute to this club to the best of my ability," Murakami stated.
“I've heard this club has lost a lot of games in the past. But that is the past. I only look forward.”
That message mirrors what the White Sox’s young core has been saying all along. For players like Kyle Teel, Colson Montgomery, and Chase Meidroth, it didn’t matter that the 2024 White Sox lost more games than any team in MLB history.
They see this as a new era. They’re focused on what’s ahead—and when you watch them play, you can feel it.
This time around, the White Sox appear to have done a better job acquiring young talent that genuinely loves the game. Players who show up every day ready to work, ready to compete, and ready to play for one another.
That’s the culture inside the clubhouse. That’s the culture Will Venable has helped nurture. And that’s the culture Murakami is stepping into.
Like everyone else on this roster, he’s young, hungry, and has something to prove.
3. Murakami Is Going to Be a Fan Favorite
Expect to see plenty of No. 5 Murakami jerseys lining the concourses at Rate Field this season.
Everyone loves the long ball—and Murakami’s power has the potential to send plenty of baseballs deep into the right-field seats.
But beyond the production, it’s impossible not to like him once you hear him speak.
He opened his introductory statement with:
“Hello, my name is Munetaka Murakami. White Sox Nation, you guys are in my heart.”
Moments later, he pulled a white sock out from under the table and held it up with a smile, drawing laughter from those in attendance. He’s charming. He’s genuine. He’s easy to root for.
Murakami also announced a $10,000 donation to St. James Food Pantry, along with an additional $10,000 in the form of 100 $100 grocery gift certificates. (via Scott Merkin)
Within 24 hours of officially signing his contract, he had already established himself as a remarkably likable figure for a fan base eager to rally around a star.
The international attention he brings—particularly from Japan—will only amplify that impact.
All things considered, the White Sox hit a home run with this signing.
There’s no guarantee that Murakami’s contract will work out. But the organization clearly believes in the work they’ve done scouting and evaluating him in Japan.
Quite frankly, it’s hard to remember a free-agent signing this exciting for White Sox fans to collectively get behind.
My hope is that this serves as a lesson for owner Jerry Reinsdorf. Murakami is going to drive ticket sales, sell jerseys, and generate international revenue. Sometimes, the best way to make money is to spend money.
This one already feels like a big win for the club—and no one can fault the White Sox for taking a swing.