The bond between two of Japan’s biggest stars has officially translated to Major League history.
Just weeks after Shohei Ohtani was seen mentoring Munetaka Murakami on his swing mechanics during the 2026 World Baseball Classic-a session that immediately preceded a Murakami grand slam-the 26-year-old rookie is proving that the “Ohtani Effect” is very much alive in Chicago.
On Sunday, Murakami became just the fourth player in MLB history to hit a home run in each of his first three career games, joining an elite club that includes Trevor Story and 2026 peer Chase DeLauter.
Despite a rocky start for the Chicago White Sox, who were swept by the Milwaukee Brewers and set a record with 20 strikeouts on Opening Day, Murakami has been a singular bright spot.
A historic power surge on the south side
On Sunday, he capped his historic debut series by launching a home run off Brewers right-hander Brandon Sproat.
The blast followed his solo shots on Thursday and Saturday, cementing a .333 average and an incredible three home runs in his first three Major League appearances.
Murakami’s transition from the NPB-where he slugged 246 home runs over eight seasons-has been nearly seamless.
While his strikeout rate remains a point of observation, his raw power has already vindicated the White Sox’s decision to sign him to a two-year, $34 million deal this past December.
The connection to Shohei Ohtani has been a defining narrative of Murakami’s journey to the United States. During the 2026 WBC, the two were inseparable as Ohtani worked closely with the younger slugger to refine his mechanics.
From WBC mentorship to MLB stardom
That preparation seems to have been the perfect springboard; after finding his rhythm on the international stage, Murakami is now providing the White Sox with a high-impact bat they haven’t seen in years.
Chicago is hoping Murakami is the missing piece for a roster finally emerging from a 41-win low in 2024.
As the team heads to face the Miami Marlins next, the focus won’t just be on securing a win, but on whether Murakami can stand alone by hitting a home run in his fourth consecutive game-a feat that would break the current rookie record he currently shares.
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