Former Sox player Shingo Takatsu is bullish on Munetaka Murakami, but here's where it gets controversial... While Takatsu, a sidearm closer who earned 27 saves for the Sox in 1 1/2 seasons (2004-05), has seen Murakami's zenith in Japan, where he hit 56 home runs and posted a 1.168 OPS in 141 games, he acknowledges that it could take a while for Murakami to adjust to workouts and daily life in the States. And this is the part most people miss... But Takatsu, who now works for Fuji TV, is confident in Murakami's ability to adapt and blend in, citing his friendly demeanor and previous success in Japan. Will power... Sox manager Will Venable, who addressed expectations in a meeting prior to the first full-squad workout, intends to give Murakami and a few other players game opportunities before they depart for the World Baseball Classic. And this is the part most people miss... The workouts have been staggered into four groups, with players starting their work 20 minutes apart before reuniting for team fundamental drills. But here's where it gets thought-provoking... As for adjusting to pitching and managing to a media job, Takatsu quipped, 'I'd rather be wear a uniform.' So, what do you think? Will Murakami succeed in the MLB? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
