Munetaka Murakami's First Week with the White Sox: Teammates Learn Japanese and Say "Moe Ippatsu"

"The most noticeable is Chase; he runs over saying 'Moe Ippatsu,' which means 'one more.'"

Standing before the media group at the Chicago White Sox spring training camp, Murakami described his first week integrating into the team through a translator. The 26-year-old Japanese power hitter, who signed a two-year $34 million deal during the offseason, is adapting to major league life.

Murakami is undergoing an intense training schedule while handling constant attention—from long-distance home runs during batting practice to hard ground balls hit toward Mike Vasil in live batting drills, every move is scrutinized. He will leave on February 27 to return to Japan for the World Baseball Classic.

"At first, I was very nervous, but my teammates, the clubhouse staff, and even the coaches have been very friendly and welcoming," Murakami said. "Now I’m gradually getting used to it and very happy to be here."

When asked about communication with teammates, Murakami said, "My teammates are great at communicating. My English is still learning, but we use gestures and simple words, so communication is no problem. I’m happy to be part of the team."

Manager Will Venable has confirmed that Murakami’s left-handed power bat will be placed in the heart of the lineup, though the exact spot is still being considered. He has enough time to decide before the season opener against the Milwaukee Brewers on March 26.

Defensively, Murakami will primarily play first base but will also get some playing time at third base. He played both positions during his time with the Yakult Swallows in Japan’s professional league.

"Third base has always been one of my positions," Murakami said. "As long as I can help the team win and maximize my potential, I’m ready anytime."

Venable explained, "From a lineup perspective, it’s easiest to put him at first base, so most of the time he’ll be there. We know he has experience at third base and want to explore that possibility."

With the Cactus League spring training games starting next Saturday, Murakami’s overall abilities will be tested more clearly. He said he’s not yet sure how many games or at-bats he will have before leaving.

Teammates and coaches share a remarkably consistent view of Murakami—exceptionally talented and highly focused.

Shortstop Colson Montgomery remarked, "He’s almost superhuman. He has talent, skill, and is incredibly smart. His understanding and approach to hitting are very deep, which is admirable. He has a strong desire to win—you just have to watch the Classic to see that. Bringing in a player with that hunger to win, that attitude is contagious."

White Sox hitting coach Derek Shomon said, "The most important thing for Murakami is to be himself and become the best version of himself, which we pursue every day. Although jet lag and sleep schedule adjustments are real challenges, he’s handling it very well."

Undoubtedly, Murakami is enjoying himself. He often jokes with teammates, shakes hands and chats with the media, showing a great sense of humor. When discussing the smart toilets to be installed at Guaranteed Rate Field, he not only praised their functionality but also emphasized their environmental benefits. Earlier this week, when his locker nameplate was mistakenly spelled "Munetaki" instead of "Munetaka," he poked fun at it on Instagram.

"Honestly, it was hilarious. I thought it was a joke," Murakami laughed. "I have no complaints about the team; it’s just so funny."

White Sox assistant general manager Joshua Barfield commented, "He’s adapting quickly, joking around, very outgoing, and speaks English well. He’s truly special."

Of course, one week of spring training is not enough to conclude that he will be the key player in the rebuild.

"My primary goal is to win games and truly contribute to winning," Murakami said. "That’s the most important thing. I want to interact with fans as much as possible so they can get to know me and understand who I am."