Munetaka Murakami talks about smart toilet suggestion: They use too much toilet paper

Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami, who joined the Chicago White Sox this year, was interviewed today at the Arizona spring training facility. He talked about his experience attending his first Major League spring training, his excitement for the Classic, and his recommendation to add smart toilets in the players’ lounge. The White Sox have already implemented this, and when the media asked why he suggested it, he answered, "Because they consume a lot of toilet paper."

Speaking about spring training in Arizona, Murakami said, "Although I feel a bit nervous, my teammates, staff, head coach, and coaches are all very kind people. It’s easy to get along with them, and I’m enjoying it. My English isn’t very fluent, but I try to use gestures to help them understand."

When asked about the differences between White Sox training and Nippon Professional Baseball, Murakami explained that the training schedule is very tight and strictly timed, with short breaks and some parts left to individual discretion, which is quite different. He feels his practice volume is sufficient and progress is going well. He also revealed that he started adjusting his batting form since November, knowing he would face higher-level pitchers and faster pitches in the U.S. Everyone is discussing whether he can adapt. He himself sees it as a challenge; he’s unsure if the adjustments are perfect but feels prepared.

Murakami will naturally be a focus for media and fans this year, but he doesn’t feel much pressure because he’s used to being in the spotlight in Japan. Going forward, he just wants to work hard on understanding the language. Asked about the responsibility of being a superstar, he said, "The most important thing is to focus on winning. If I have time, I will also sign autographs for fans."

Since joining the White Sox, Murakami has to cover both third base and first base. He hasn’t played a game yet but feels the balls hit are stronger than those by Japanese players. The ball moves, so catching might be more difficult, but "I just have to do it! This is also what I want to do — to tackle challenges one by one is my job, so I will work hard." After arriving in the U.S., Murakami has chatted with Japanese teammates like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, and Masataka Yoshida. He has also messaged Shohei Ohtani occasionally, but they haven’t had detailed advice exchanges yet. Ohtani simply told him, "Keep it up."

Following Murakami’s suggestion, the White Sox installed smart toilets in the players’ locker room bathrooms. Murakami explained the reason: "When I have stomach pain, I don’t want to go out on the field, so I hope to feel comfortable. Also, since I’m used to using them in Japan, I thought it was necessary and told my agent. I introduced the benefits of smart toilets to my teammates, and it’s also good for the environment because they use a lot of toilet paper."

In his first year in the Major Leagues, Murakami is mindful not to rush things. He said he has been practicing well and doesn’t feel he is overdoing it. When his body starts to improve, that’s when he needs to be most careful and honestly face his physical condition as he trains.

The White Sox are most looking forward to his power hitting. Murakami said, "I consider myself a home run hitter, and the team expects that too, so I want to deliver that kind of performance."