How did Munetaka Murakami do vs Chinese Taipei in World Baseball Classic pool play?

The White Sox fans were able to get a bit of a feel of what they can expect out of Murakami, as he was playing first base for Team Japan in their opening game of pool play against Team Chinese Taipei. The game would only last seven innings as Japan won 13-0 due to the early termination/mercy rule, but Murakami would hold his own at the plate, going 1 for 3 with a walk and three runs scored.

He would lead off the second inning with a walk and set the groundwork for Team Japan’s 10-run second inning. Murakami would get a second at-bat in the inning and get his first hit of the 2026 World Baseball Classic with an infield single deflected off the pitcher. He would ground into a fielder’s choice in the third inning to reach base for a third time and come around to score for the third time in the game.

Despite playing only third base for the White Sox in Spring Training, he spent all seven innings at first base. The positional versatility will only do well for Chicago’s roster construction. Team Japan will play again tomorrow as they will be the home team against Team Korea in pool play. It will be intriguing to see how Murakami is able to play in the World Baseball Classic.