Connect with us

Sports

Yankult Swallows to Post Slugger Munetaka Murakami for MLB Bidding

Published

on

Munetaka Murakami Japanese Baseball Slugger

Tokyo, Japan – The Yakult Swallows of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) are preparing to post slugger Munetaka Murakami, allowing him to negotiate with Major League Baseball (MLB) teams this offseason, reports MLB’s Mark Feinsand.

Murakami, a two-time MVP and four-time All-Star, turned 25 in February, making him a professional player under MLB’s international free agency rules. This status allows him to sign without restrictions once posted. His anticipated move to MLB has been brewing for several years, as the Swallows had indicated a desire to honor Murakami’s request for a transfer.

In a notable 2022 season, Murakami launched 56 home runs and drove in 134 RBIs, demonstrating his immense power potential. However, his 2025 season was interrupted by injury, limiting him to 56 games where he still hit 22 home runs. His batting average stands at .270, with OPS figures showcasing his ability as a power hitter despite concerns about his strikeout rate, which has remained above 28% for three consecutive years.

As a primarily third baseman during his career, Murakami may also see time at first base or designated hitter in MLB. Teams that are already showing interest include the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Seattle Mariners. The Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and Boston Red Sox are also keeping a close eye on the situation.

“Murakami is expected to command a lucrative contract this offseason,” Feinsand noted. “His performance in Japan suggests he will be one of the hottest free-agent targets available.”

The effectiveness of his transition to MLB pitching is uncertain, particularly given the increased velocity and quality. Historically, batters from Japan have varied in their success upon arrival in the MLB.

With teams gearing up for free agency, Murakami’s name is anticipated to remain a focal point of interest as he prepares to make his mark in Major League Baseball.