Chicago White Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami reminded the baseball world exactly why he’s one of the most feared power hitters in the sport.
During Japan’s World Baseball Classic matchup against Czechia, Murakami delivered a massive moment — launching a towering grand slam that helped secure a dominant victory and extend Japan’s perfect start in the tournament.
Murakami provides the breakthrough
Feb 20, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) hits a single against the Chicago Cubs in the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images | Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Japan entered the game already in strong position in Pool C, having clinched a spot in the knockout round. With superstar Shohei Ohtani resting on the bench, Murakami stepped into the spotlight as the lineup’s most dangerous hitter.
For much of the game, however, Japan’s offense was surprisingly quiet.
Czechia held the defending champions scoreless through the first seven innings, frustrating one of the most talented lineups in the tournament.
Everything changed when Kenya Wakatsuki doubled to right field, finally igniting Japan’s offense. The team quickly pushed across five runs, setting the stage for Murakami to step up with the bases loaded.
After working through the count — taking a high pitch, missing an off-speed offering, and watching another pitch outside — Murakami finally got a fastball at the top of the zone.
He didn’t miss it.
Murakami crushed the pitch 425 feet into deep right-center field, sending the ball off the bat at 112.1 mph and clearing the bases with a thunderous grand slam.
The blast stretched Japan’s lead to 9–0 and effectively sealed the game as the team improved to 4–0 in the World Baseball Classic.
Early WBC production
Murakami’s grand slam was his biggest moment of the tournament so far, but it wasn’t his only contribution.
Through his first four WBC games, the White Sox star has recorded:
- 3 hits
- 5 RBIs
- 2 walks
The performance reinforces his reputation as a player capable of delivering in big international moments.
Strong start to spring training
Murakami has also looked comfortable during spring training with the White Sox, even though he has yet to hit his first home run in a Chicago uniform.
Across four spring games, he collected five hits and two RBIs, though he also struck out five times — something that may simply be part of his offensive profile.
Murakami’s power approach naturally leads to swings and misses, but when he connects, the results can be spectacular.
Even without a home run, he has already produced several hard-hit balls up the middle of the field, showing flashes of the power that made him one of the most coveted hitters coming from Japan.
Defensive versatility on display
Murakami has also shown he can contribute defensively.
While some initially expected him to serve primarily as a designated hitter, the White Sox appear ready to use him regularly at first base. The team already has multiple promising infield prospects, making that position a natural fit for the 26-year-old slugger.
During a spring training game against the Milwaukee Brewers — Chicago’s upcoming Opening Day opponent — Murakami even made a highlight-reel catch over the dugout, demonstrating surprising range and awareness.
High expectations in Chicago
Murakami’s transition to Major League Baseball is still in its early stages, and there will likely be adjustments along the way.
However, moments like his WBC grand slam show exactly why the White Sox are excited about their newest star.
Murakami has built a reputation for rising to the occasion in big moments throughout his career. If that trend continues in Chicago, White Sox fans may soon see plenty more towering home runs like the one that electrified the World Baseball Classic.
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