Yakult Swallows third baseman Munetaka Murakami speaks at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 2, 2024, after putting pen to paper for his 2025 contract. (Kyodo)

TOKYO - Yakult Swallows slugger Munetaka Murakami pledged Monday to do his best to lead his team to the championship next year before starting his Major League Baseball career in 2026.