Munetaka Murakami, Japan’s home run king, has been posted to MLB teams, starting a 45-day signing window that could see him land a massive contract due to his power-hitting prowess.
The posting of Munetaka Murakami by the Tokyo Yakult Swallows on Friday marks a significant event in baseball’s offseason, as the 25-year-old infielder becomes available to Major League clubs. His entry into the posting system initiates a 45-day period for negotiations, set to begin at 8 a.m. ET on Saturday and conclude on December 22. Murakami, who holds NPB’s single-season home run record, is expected to attract widespread interest from teams seeking to bolster their lineups. This move follows a trend of successful transitions by Japanese players to MLB, enhancing the global appeal of the sport. The process is structured to ensure fair compensation for both the player and his former team.
Murakami’s career in Japan is distinguished by his 2022 season, where he hit 56 home runs to break Sadaharu Oh’s record of 55, a feat that had stood since 1964. Over eight seasons with the Swallows, he accumulated 246 home runs and 722 RBIs, maintaining a .270 batting average and a .394 on-base percentage. His 2022 performance also earned him the Central League’s Triple Crown, leading in home runs, RBIs, and batting average. Despite a high strikeout rate of 26%, his power and plate discipline make him a coveted asset. Scouts praise his ability to hit for average and power, though his swing-and-miss tendencies are noted.
The posting timeline requires MLB teams to act quickly, with the window closing in mid-December. If no deal is reached, Murakami will return to Japan for the 2026 season. Teams must pay a posting fee based on the contract value: 20% for the first $25 million, 17.5% for the next $25 million, and 15% above $50 million. For a contract over $100 million, the fee would be at least $16.9 million. This financial aspect is critical in negotiations, as it adds to the total cost of acquisition. Such fees are standard in international player transfers, balancing interests across leagues.
In the recent 2025 season, Murakami was limited to 56 games due to an oblique injury but still hit 22 home runs with a .273/.379/.663 slash line. This injury-shortened season highlights his power potential but raises questions about his durability. His strikeout rate remains a concern, with 977 career strikeouts, though his walk rate over 16% indicates good selectivity. Teams will evaluate his health and ability to adapt to MLB pitching. Despite the injury, his production per game was elite, suggesting he could make an immediate impact if healthy.
Murakami’s strengths include his youth, power, and versatility, as he can play both first and third base. However, his high strikeout rate and injury history are red flags that teams must consider. His performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where he contributed key hits for Japan’s championship team, demonstrates his clutch ability. The success of other Japanese players in MLB, like Shohei Ohtani, boosts his appeal. A contract exceeding $100 million is anticipated, reflecting his potential to be a franchise cornerstone.
As the signing window progresses, teams will weigh his upside against risks, with evaluations focusing on his power stroke and defensive capabilities. High-ranking executives have scouted him and expressed interest, indicating a competitive market. His signing could influence team strategies for the upcoming season, potentially shifting power dynamics in the league. The outcome will be closely watched, as it represents a key moment in international baseball relations. Ultimately, Murakami’s move to MLB could further bridge the gap between Japanese and American baseball.
