Munetaka Murakami Signs with Chicago White Sox; Mentor Shingo Takatsu Joyfully Sends His Blessings

Munetaka Murakami, who holds the single-season home run record among Japanese players in professional baseball, will sign a two-year deal worth $34 million (around 240 million RMB) with the Chicago White Sox. His ex-manager at the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and also a former White Sox player, the celebrated Japanese figure Shingo Takatsu, is especially delighted by this development.

Shingo Takatsu holds the record for the most saves in Nippon Professional Baseball history and joined the White Sox in 2004 when he attempted to play in Major League Baseball. In the latter part of his career, he played in the Chinese Professional Baseball League, later joining the Yakult coaching staff in 2014, and served as the Swallows’ manager from 2020 until stepping down in September this year. Upon hearing about Murakami’s signing with the White Sox, he wrote on social media: “I’m so happy! I definitely have to come cheer for you in person!”

In a statement posted on his personal social media, Murakami said: “Since I began playing, I sincerely thank every senior who cared for and guided me. I am also deeply grateful to the team staff who have supported me all along, my amazing teammates, supervisors, and coaches—thank you all so much!”

Murakami specially remembered Takeshi Kinugasa, the late president of the Yakult Swallows who passed away earlier this year: “Most importantly, the late President Kinugasa, I have finally reached the starting line. It’s a pity you can’t share this moment with me, but I feel as if I can hear you from heaven saying, ‘Murakami, congratulations. But this is just the beginning, keep going!’”

Besides his teammates, Murakami also mentioned the Yakult Swallows mascot “Tsubakuro”: “Tsubakuro, who has always warmly welcomed me, please continue to watch over me.” The performer behind Tsubakuro sadly passed away due to illness in February this year, and the mascot’s activities have since been suspended.

As he prepares to step onto the Major League Baseball stage, Murakami openly shared his excitement: “From here, a brand-new journey begins. Being able to play for the Chicago White Sox and stand on the MLB stage I’ve dreamed of fills me with immense joy.” Finally, he addressed Japanese fans, hoping to continue receiving their encouragement and support in the future.