White Sox make huge Munetaka Murakami injury move

While the Chicago White Sox still hold a share of the NL Central lead, they are in a bit of a slump after getting swept by the Boston Red Sox. But as they prepare for their next series against the Athletics, the White Sox will be getting some extra reinforcements.

Chicago has activated first baseman Munetaka Murakami off of the injured list, the team announced. In turn, fellow infielder Jacob Gonzalez has been optioned to Triple-A.

Murakami has been on the injured list since late May with a hamstring injury. After going through a rehab assignment, the first baseman is now ready to build off his impressive rookie campaign. It couldn’t have come at a better time for the White Sox, as they went 17-18 in his absence, via Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

Over his first 57 games in the major leagues, Murakami is hitting .240 with 20 home runs and 41 RBIs. Even though he missed 35 games, the first baseman still ranks second on the team in home runs and fourth in RBIs. Furthermore, he still ranks third amongst all rookies in home runs and eighth in RBIs.

During the White Sox’s three-game sweep against the Red Sox, the franchise scored just two runs total. They know their bats need to be much more impactful. Luckily for them, arguably their biggest bopper of them all is now ready to make his return.

Chicago will still be cautious with Murakami. Soft tissue injuries can linger, and the team is seriously battling for a playoff spot. But if they want to be taken seriously as contender, the White Sox know they look much stronger with Murakami in their lineup.