Strikeout rate remains the biggest concern: Chicago White Sox hitting coach explains Munetaka Murakami's future adjustment direction

Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami officially joined Major League Baseball on December 21. The 25-year-old power hitter signed a two-year contract worth $34 million with the Chicago White Sox to begin his career in the U.S. Compared to early expectations of a near $200 million deal, the final contract was significantly smaller, reflecting American baseball’s cautious outlook on his future performance.

When Murakami entered the bidding system to challenge MLB, it was initially expected that multiple teams would compete for him. However, this offseason saw several other power-hitting infielders enter free agency, including Pete Alonso and Kyle Schwarber, which diluted market demand and cooled negotiation enthusiasm. Ultimately, Murakami reached an agreement with the White Sox 48 hours before the negotiation deadline.

Although Murakami hit a total of 246 home runs in Nippon Professional Baseball, his strikeout rate has risen from 28.1% to 29.5% over the past three seasons, with his high swing-and-miss rate becoming a growing concern. The well-known U.S. data site FanGraphs also predicts a disappointing 2026 season for him, estimating a batting average of only .231 and a strikeout rate of 28.7%.

According to U.S. media, teams like the Yankees and Dodgers, once considered potential suitors, became more cautious based on risk assessments. For Murakami, this two-year contract represents a crucial test to see if he can adjust to the intensity of MLB pitching.

However, the White Sox are not unprepared for these risks. New hitting coach Derek Shomon told Sox Machine that the team views Murakami’s situation as a normal development process: “It’s not much different from a Triple-A player moving up to the majors; every player needs time to adjust.”

Shomon also emphasized that the coaching staff has established a comprehensive support system for Murakami: “Pitchers will definitely attack his weaknesses, but we have the ability to help him adapt to baseball here. Plus, he’s a player who is very willing to put in the work and make adjustments.”

Regarding hitting adjustments, Shomon frankly stated that the White Sox do not overly focus on short-term swing-and-miss statistics: “Power hitters inherently accept a certain strikeout rate to some extent. We believe that once he consistently makes contact, the power hitting will naturally follow.”

Murakami was known for his strong discipline during his time with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Now stepping onto the MLB stage, how he balances maintaining his power while reducing swing-and-miss uncertainty will be key to shaping the trajectory of his major league career.