Munetaka Murakami returns to White Sox with a home run in first game after Classic, says: "Feels perfect"

The World Baseball Classic ended in disappointment for Munetaka Murakami, but his first day back with the Chicago White Sox was quite different.

"Feels perfect," Murakami said via a translator, "Just perfect."

Murakami was describing his first home run of Cactus League spring training—a solo shot in the fifth inning off Athletics right-hander Luis Morales. The White Sox won 6-4. While results in spring training often carry little weight, Murakami feels good as he gets closer to his MLB debut on March 26 (U.S. time) on the road against the Milwaukee Brewers.

"My physical condition is also much better compared to when I left Arizona," Murakami said, "I'm seeing the ball better, swinging better, and I'll keep this up and try to hit as many hits as possible."

Before leaving to join Samurai Japan, Murakami went 5-for-13 (.385) with two RBIs in four Cactus League games for the White Sox. This home run was his only hit in four at-bats today.

"He had a great first stint of spring training," manager Will Venable said, "He really engaged with the program. He built connections with teammates, learned how to support him, and some key factors to get him in optimal shape and prepare at a high level."

During the Classic, Murakami played five games for Japan, posting a slash line of .211/.286/.368 with one home run—a grand slam against Czech Republic—five RBIs, four runs scored, and one stolen base. After winning all four group stage games, Japan lost to Venezuela in the quarterfinals, ending the defending champion's run early.

"Most importantly, when looking back after the season, I want to say that this Classic experience really helped me achieve things during the season," Murakami said, "Being able to participate in a world tournament with world-class players was a blessing. For me, being with a great team of athletes and teammates, working with them was a joy."

Murakami, who primarily played third base during his eight-year career in Japan, started all five Classic games at first base, a position he will occupy for the White Sox this season. Infield coach Justin Jirschele worked with Murakami early in spring training on refining first-base defense details, but after nearly three weeks away with the Classic team, the 26-year-old needed to reconnect with White Sox coaches and teammates.

"We added a lot of new things while he was away, so we've done some classroom-style learning over the past few days to get him up to speed on some things," Venable said, "We had a good team fundamentals day, addressed some issues, so we're pleased with his status and will make good use of the final days."

Murakami hopes to get as many at-bats against MLB pitchers as possible in the final week of spring training, aware that he lacks experience against many pitchers he'll face during the season.

With the Classic over and the regular season countdown down to single digits, Murakami is excited to begin a new chapter in his baseball career.

"I'm getting more comfortable every day," Murakami said, "I feel I'm ready."