Murakami's 9 Home Runs Boost White Sox Offense in April 2026

Munetaka Murakami has hit 9 home runs in his first 23 games, more than Shohei Ohtani's 6 in his first 23 games. This is a record start for a Japanese player.
By Newsroom | Sports, Baseball |

Record-Setting Pace Fuels Chicago's Offense

Munetaka Murakami has ignited the Chicago White Sox offense, marking a historic start to his Major League Baseball career. As of today, the newcomer has launched nine home runs in his first 23 games, a mark that surpasses any other Japanese-born player in their initial 23 MLB contests. This early power surge places him ahead of even Shohei Ohtani, who recorded six homers in his first 23 games as a hitter. The slugger's recent performance includes homering in four consecutive games, a streak that could tie a White Sox individual record if extended. This offensive onslaught was on full display in an 11-5 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday, where Murakami's long ball contributed to a three-run second inning following a four-run first.

Murakami stays red hot as White Sox pour it on in 11-5 victory - 1

Power Translates from NPB

Murakami's raw power, once a dominant force in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), appears to be translating seamlessly to the major league level. On Friday, he delivered his first career grand slam, a 431-foot blast off Elvis Alvarado that extended the White Sox's lead to 9-1 against the Oakland Athletics. This event, part of a 9-2 White Sox win, highlighted his ability to drive in runs with significant impact. His success is proving to be more than expected, with half of his 14 hits through his first 21 games being home runs, and notably, no doubles or triples yet. This powerful, albeit unconventional, hitting profile has generated considerable excitement for a fanbase accustomed to rebuilding efforts.

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Murakami stays red hot as White Sox pour it on in 11-5 victory - 2

A New Challenge for Pitchers

The red-hot slugger now presents a significant challenge for opposing teams, most recently the Arizona Diamondbacks. As the Diamondbacks' right-hander Merrill Kelly prepares for his first home start of the season on Tuesday in Phoenix, the White Sox, with Murakami in their lineup, pose a new threat. Kelly, who holds a 1-0 record with a 3.38 ERA, is set to face White Sox right-hander Sean Burke (0-2, 4.43 ERA) in the series opener. While the White Sox had been in a slump, losing 8 of 10 games prior to taking two of three against the Athletics, Murakami's recent performance has undeniably shifted the team's momentum and outlook.

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Background

Munetaka Murakami, 26, joined the Chicago White Sox after a decorated career in NPB. His arrival in MLB was anticipated, with expectations tempered by the historical difficulty many international players face in adapting to major league pitching. However, his immediate impact, particularly his prodigious home run output, has defied those reservations and captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. The White Sox, who have undergone periods of rebuilding, are experiencing a palpable surge in enthusiasm driven by Murakami's electrifying presence at the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many home runs has Munetaka Murakami hit for the White Sox?
As of April 22, 2026, Munetaka Murakami has hit nine home runs in his first 23 games with the Chicago White Sox. This is a record for a Japanese player in their first 23 MLB games.
Q: Did Murakami hit a grand slam recently?
Yes, on Friday, April 18, 2026, Murakami hit his first career grand slam, a 431-foot blast against the Oakland Athletics.
Q: How is Murakami's power translating from Japan to MLB?
Murakami's power from Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) is translating well to MLB. Half of his 14 hits through his first 21 games were home runs, showing his significant impact.
Q: How has Murakami's performance affected the White Sox?
Murakami's strong start has shifted the White Sox's momentum and outlook, bringing excitement to the fanbase. His performance has challenged opposing teams like the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Q: What was the White Sox's record before Murakami's recent surge?
Before taking two of three games against the Oakland Athletics, the White Sox had been in a slump, losing 8 out of their previous 10 games.