MLB Postseason begins with record number of Japanese players

The MLB postseason has commenced, featuring a significant presence of Japanese players across multiple teams. A total of nine Japanese players are expected to participate in the playoffs.

Chicago White Sox infielder Munetaka Murakami, who hit a record-setting 35 home runs in his rookie season, is set to face the Houston Astros in the Wild Card Series. In the first game of the series, Murakami made history as the first Japanese player in his rookie year to record an RBI in his first postseason at-bat, driving in a run with a sacrifice fly.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, aiming for a historic third consecutive World Series title, face challenges including player injuries and an aging roster. Analysts have noted that while the Dodgers are favorites, their championship probability has fluctuated due to recent performance and fatigue. Key players involved include Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

Other Japanese players in the postseason include Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga of the Cubs, Yuki Matsui of the Padres, Tsubasa Imai of the Astros, and potentially Masataka Yoshida of the Red Sox.