Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, known for his record-breaking power, has declared his intent to join MLB after the 2025 NPB season. The 24-year-old, with a jaw-dropping 224 career homers, could become the Yankees’ long-term solution at first base after Anthony Rizzo’s $17 million option was declined.
Despite a dip in recent stats, Murakami remains a potent hitter, slashing .244/.379/.472 with 33 homers and 86 RBIs in 2024. While primarily a third baseman, his defensive challenges (-56 DRS since 2022) suggest a shift to first base—aligning perfectly with the Yankees’ projected needs.
Murakami has expressed interest in the Yankees, a franchise with a storied history of Japanese talent. Could his arrival secure the Bombers’ future? Stay tuned.
Murakami’s potential move to the Bronx comes at a pivotal moment for the Yankees, who are in need of reliable long-term solutions to regain their competitive edge. With his ability to hit for power and showcase clutch performances on the international stage—such as his walk-off double in the 2023 World Baseball Classic semifinal and home run in the championship game—Murakami has proven he can thrive under pressure.
His historical achievements in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), including breaking Sadaharu Oh’s single-season home run record with 56 in 2022, place him among the most elite Japanese players of his generation. Despite a slight decline in 2023 and 2024, Murakami remains a highly sought-after talent. His combination of power, plate discipline, and international experience could provide the Yankees with a significant boost both offensively and culturally.
While the Yankees have been linked to other free-agent first basemen like Pete Alonso and Christian Walker, Murakami represents a long-term investment. The team could opt for a short-term bridge player, such as Paul Goldschmidt or Carlos Santana, before solidifying their infield with Murakami’s arrival in 2026.
Standing in the Yankees’ way, however, are other MLB teams that recognize Murakami’s immense potential. The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off their successful recruitment of Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, are seen as major contenders. Yet, the Dodgers’ first base and DH spots are already occupied by Freddie Freeman and Ohtani, possibly opening the door for the Yankees to make their move.
With his expected posting by the Tokyo Yakult Swallows after the 2025 season, Murakami will be exempt from international bonus pool restrictions due to his age. This allows MLB teams to bid freely for his services, making the Yankees a prime candidate to secure his talents.
Murakami’s admiration for the Yankees and their history with Japanese stars like Hideki Matsui and Masahiro Tanaka could be a deciding factor. If the Yankees land Murakami, his presence could not only fill the void left by Rizzo but also establish a new era of dominance at Yankee Stadium.
Will the Yankees’ storied legacy and pressing need for a power-hitting first baseman bring Murakami to the Bronx, or will another team swoop in to secure one of NPB’s brightest stars? The countdown to his MLB debut is on.
