MLB official introduced Saisneed and Kiblehan’s “Murakami review”
Yakult’s young main gun, infielder Munetaka Murakami, is on his way to becoming the youngest ever to win the Triple Crown. As of the end of the 13th, he marked 55 homers, which is tied for the most by a Japanese player and tied for 2nd all-time. I wonder how his colleague helper sees such a 22-year-old. The official MLB website features Murakami under the title “Not Just Judges: The Main Gunner Who Challenges Home Run Records Across the Sea,” and introduces the “testimonies” of pitcher Saisnead and outfielder Patrick Kiblehan.
Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge is approaching the American League record of 61 home runs in the majors, and in NPB, 22-year-old Murakami is five more than Valentin (Yakult)’s record of 60 home runs in 2013. An article by reporter John Morosi introduced Murakami as “a mirror reflection of the judges.” He says, “Murakami hits left-handed, Judge hits right-handed. Murakami plays in Tokyo, Judge plays in New York. While one is sleeping, the other is hitting big.” .
Saisnead, who has been playing for Yakult since last year, explains, “His batting sticks are definitely reminiscent of Judge’s. Both of them hit huge home runs.” When he joined the team, he heard from his colleague Scott McGuff, “He is a player who will become a major leaguer.” “This year is on a different level. You don’t see him off balance very often. He seems to be feeling the evolution.
In addition, the mental strength that piles up home runs while being in the spotlight is also surprising. “I don’t think it’s going to affect him at all,” he said.
Kibrehan, who joined Yakult in the middle of the season, also praises Murakami. “He’s a special man, he has all the ingredients of a superstar. He’s humble, he’s young, but he’s sending the whole country into a frenzy. People everywhere wearing Murakami shirts. “They’re out there and fans are waiting outside the hotel to catch a glimpse. It’s like playing with a rock star.”
And compare that to Paul Goldschmidt of the Cardinals, who is currently in the middle of a triple crown in the National League. “I played with Goldschmidt for a month. Murakami’s hitting sound is similar to Goldschmidt’s. Any ball has the right timing.” Murakami’s talent is highly appreciated by two players who once played in the majors. How far will he improve in the remaining 15 games of the season?
(Full-Count editorial department)