Shoki Murakami村上頌樹
Hanshin Tigers · Pitcher (starter)
A right-handed starter for the Hanshin Tigers. From Minami-Awaji, Hyogo, he was the ace of Chiben Gakuen’s 2019 national championship team. In 2023 he became just the third player ever — a Central League first — to win Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. Pinpoint command is his calling card. (Not to be confused with slugger Munetaka Murakami.)
Why MLB is watching
A command right-hander posting a 2.13 ERA and 0.89 WHIP in 2026. He wins with polish rather than power, projecting as a mid-rotation arm in MLB. Overseas coverage is still limited.
Posting / FA outlook
A 2027-offseason posting is anticipated but not announced; international free agency comes later.
Comparable MLB player
A polished, command-first mid-rotation right-hander.
This season
- G
- 14
- ERA
- 2.13
- W-L
- 6-5
- IP
- 97.1
- SO
- 81
As of 2026-06-30 · Source: NPB official