Munetaka Murakami claps back at critics amid strong start

Imagn Images

Munetaka Murakami claps back at critics amid strong start

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Robin Adams | Last updated May 13, 2026 10:58 AM ET

The Chicago White Sox are 20-21 and 1.5 games out of first place in the American League Central Division. After years of abysmal baseball and three consecutive 100+ loss seasons, Chicago finally appears to be headed in the right direction.

Among their multiple pleasant surprises this season is the power swing of Japanese first baseman Munetaka Murakami. Currently, the 26-year-old rookie is hitting .228/.362/.545 with 15 home runs and 29 RBI. He does, however, lead the Majors with 63 strikeouts.

Indeed, the high level of strikeouts he was known for in Japan overshadowed his propensity to also have high home runs totals in the eyes of every MLB team. That is, of course, except for the White Sox.

Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami has strong message for critics

May 4, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels catcher Travis D’Arnaud (25) looks on as Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) crosses the plate for a run in the eighth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

While Murakami does strikeout at a high rate, his 15 home runs are second in the Majors and he also walks frequently. His power bat has him among early favorites to win AL Rookie of the Year and other MLB teams are kicking themselves for not trying harder to sign him over the winter.

Still, there are many who still criticize Murakami for his strikeouts. But those are the kinds of comments that the White Sox first baseman does not take seriously for a very good reason. He told The Athletic, “Obviously, there are a lot of critics that say critical comments … that are really something I ignore. Because some people who do make critical comments, or have something to say against me, would be somebody who’s not really playing ball.

“I know who I am, and what kind of challenges I do face every single day. It’s just about proving to the doubters how much I can play in this league.”

As one can see, Murakami is not going to take seriously any criticism thrown his way from fans who have not played Major League Baseball themselves.

Nor should he. Many consider hitting Major League pitching the single hardest feat in professional sports.

The White Sox knew Murakami would have high strikeout totals, but they also expressed faith that his power would translate over from Japan to MLB. They were right, and now they have one of the most coveted home run hitters in the game this season.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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