Munetaka Murakami riding season-best 24 game on-base streak since IL return

Munetaka Murakami has played a major role in the Chicago White Sox’s success in 2026. The 26-year-old rookie arrived in MLB as an accomplished slugger in Japan and has continued to show off that power, homering in each of his last two games, and bringing his season total to 26 overall.

His latest long ball helped propel Chicago to its 60th win of the season, a crucial 6-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. With Cleveland lurking in the American League Central race, Murakami’s recent production could prove especially important as the White Sox push toward the postseason.

Perhaps lost amid the home-run headlines is just how consistently Murakami has gotten on base since returning from the injured list. After being activated on July 10 following a hamstring strain, Murakami has reached base in all 24 games he has played, putting together his longest streak of his season.

Munetaka Murakami has reached base safely in every contest since being activated off the IL on July 10

Over his last 24 games, Murakami is slashing .231/.352/.495, collecting 21 hits, including six doubles and six home runs, while drawing 17 walks. He also put together an 11-game hitting streak from July 24 through Aug. 4, further highlighting the consistency he has shown since returning from the injured list.

While Murakami’s home-run power has understandably continued to grab the headlines, his ability to consistently reach base should not get lost. Before his stint on IL, he had shown extreme patience at the plate and an ability to get on base, but he’s been on a whole new level over the last month.

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