Japanese Star Murakami Praises White Sox for Installing Bidets

Slugger Murakami says bidets are better for the environment than excessive toilet paper use.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Chicago White Sox signed Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami to a two-year, $34 million contract this offseason. One of Murakami's first requests was for the team to install bidets in the clubhouse, which they did. When asked about the addition, Murakami praised the move, saying "It's good for the environment too. Everyone uses too much toilet paper."

Why it matters

Murakami's comments highlight the growing awareness around the environmental impact of toilet paper usage and the benefits of bidets. As a high-profile athlete, Murakami's endorsement of bidets could help drive more mainstream adoption of the technology in the U.S., which lags behind many other countries in bidet usage.

The details

Murakami, a 26-year-old slugger who has hit 265 home runs in his career in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league, signed with the White Sox this offseason. One of his first requests was for the team to install bidets in the clubhouse, which they did. When asked about the addition, Murakami praised the move, saying it was better for the environment than excessive toilet paper use.

  • Murakami signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the White Sox in the 2026 offseason.

The players

Munetaka Murakami

A 26-year-old Japanese baseball player who has signed a two-year, $34 million contract with the Chicago White Sox. He is known for his prodigious power, having hit 265 home runs in his career in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league.

Chicago White Sox

A Major League Baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois. They agreed to install bidets in their clubhouse at the request of new player Munetaka Murakami.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's good for the environment too. Everyone uses too much toilet paper.”

— Munetaka Murakami, White Sox Player (ESPN)

The takeaway

Murakami's endorsement of bidets over excessive toilet paper use highlights the growing environmental awareness around sustainable bathroom practices. As a high-profile athlete, his comments could help drive more mainstream adoption of bidets in the United States, where they have traditionally lagged in popularity compared to many other countries.