Murakami's HR Powers White Sox Past Guardians

The Chicago White Sox opened their Division Series with a 2-0 victory over the Guardians, powered by a thunderous home run from Munetaka Murakami. The 26-year-old slugger connected on a 112 mph blast off Cleveland rookie Parker Messick in the fourth inning, giving the White Sox an early lead they wouldn't relinquish. forestarrow.rest

Across the league, home teams held serve in the first Division Series games. The Dodgers, Rays and Brewers also won their openers, with Los Angeles and Tampa Bay receiving strong performances from their starting pitchers. Murakami's homer, which traveled 440 feet, was the hardest-hit ball of the postseason thus far and showcased why the White Sox signed him this winter despite limited interest from other teams.