Munetaka Murakami is preparing to start the season playing first base, and the Chicago White Sox plan to give him more opportunities to get accustomed to defending that position.

One of Japan's key hitters for the upcoming World Baseball Classic and this year's new infielder for the Chicago White Sox, Munetaka Murakami is expected to primarily play first base in his debut Major League season. This was revealed by White Sox assistant general manager Joshua Barfield at today's media day.

During his time with the Yakult Swallows in NPB, Murakami frequently played first base between 2019 and 2020, then mainly manned third base starting in 2021. After joining the White Sox, he initially practiced defense at third base during independent training at the Arizona team facility, which is the position he knows best.

Regarding Murakami's defensive position, Barfield said: “In the first few days in Arizona, he was practicing at third base, which is probably his most familiar spot. Playing first base is a challenge for him because he has limited experience there. But yesterday, he trained alongside others, and we plan to give him more chances before the season starts so he can adjust to first base.” Currently, third base for the White Sox is held by 26-year-old Miguel Vargas, who played 138 games last season, so Murakami is likely to primarily cover first base.

However, the White Sox's high expectations for Murakami focus on his hitting ability. Barfield stated: “Even when he doesn’t make perfect contact, the ball still flies out of the park. His power hitting is something we’re really looking forward to.”