In a major move for baseball fans in the U.S., Munetaka Murakami is officially entering the posting system to join Major League Baseball teams this offseason. The 25-year-old star of Japan’s Tokyo Yakult Swallows will have a 45-day negotiating window beginning Saturday morning at 8 a.m. ET and ending at 5 p.m. ET on December 22, 2025.
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Why It Matters
Murakami’s posting marks one of the most highly anticipated international moves in recent MLB history. During his eight seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), he has delivered power numbers that caught global attention. In 2022, he smashed 56 home runs—breaking the record for a Japanese-born player—and claimed the Triple Crown.
Even in the 2025 season, despite missing time with injury, Murakami still produced 22 homers in just 56 games and posted a .273/.379/.663 slash line. That kind of production raises serious intrigue among U.S. teams looking to add a middle-order powerhouse to their lineup.
Posting System Details
- The Swallows initiated the posting process on November 7, 2025, granting MLB clubs access to negotiate.
- Negotiation window: 8 a.m. ET Saturday → 5 p.m. ET December 22, 2025.
- If no MLB team reaches an agreement by the deadline, Murakami would return to NPB.
- Posting-fee structure (per MLB/NPB accords):
- 20% of the first $25 million of the contract
- 17.5% of the next $25 million
- 15% of any amount over $50 million
This system ensures both the player and his Japanese club benefit from the international move, making the transition smoother and financially fair.
Murakami’s Profile & Track Record
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age | 25 years old (born February 2, 2000) |
| Bat/Throw | Left bat / Right throw |
| NPB Tenure | Debuted September 16, 2018, for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows |
| Home Runs (NPB) | 246 over eight seasons (~892 games) |
| Peak Season | 2022: .318/.458/.710, 56 HR, 134 RBI; youngest player to win NPB Triple Crown |
| Position | Primarily third base, with some first-base experience |
| Strengths | Elite power, strong plate discipline for his age |
| Weaknesses | Elevated strike-out rate (~28–29 %) in recent seasons; defensive fit at third base remains under question |
Murakami’s combination of youth, power, and maturity at the plate makes him one of Japan’s most exciting exports since Shohei Ohtani. His poise under pressure and ability to adjust mid-at-bat are often praised by scouts and coaches.
Which MLB Teams Are Interested?
Several MLB franchises are already showing interest in Murakami, viewing him as a long-term asset capable of reshaping their offense.
- New York Yankees: Their need for a left-handed power bat and consistency at third base makes Murakami an ideal fit. His offensive upside could balance a lineup that has relied heavily on right-handed hitters.
- New York Mets: With financial flexibility and a focus on upgrading offensive production, the Mets are expected to pursue him aggressively. His bat could slot perfectly into the middle of their order.
- Los Angeles Dodgers: Always active in the international market, the Dodgers could see Murakami as another high-impact addition following their success with Japanese talent.
- San Francisco Giants: Known for strategic international signings, the Giants may view Murakami as a cornerstone player to rebuild around.
- Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays: Both teams are exploring power upgrades at the corner infield spots, making Murakami a natural target.
Each of these franchises understands the marketing and performance value Murakami brings—not just as a slugger but also as a bridge between NPB and MLB audiences.
What It Means for U.S. Baseball Fans
For MLB fans, Murakami’s arrival could inject a fresh wave of international excitement into the league. His signing would continue the growing trend of elite Japanese players making a seamless transition to Major League Baseball.
- Power-Hitting Expectation: Murakami’s track record of 50+ home run seasons sets high expectations for his MLB debut. Scouts believe his swing mechanics, combined with his plate discipline, could translate well against MLB pitching.
- Adjustment Period: Transitioning from NPB to MLB is never simple. Murakami will need to adjust to higher velocity, tighter strike zones, and different bullpen matchups. However, his discipline and willingness to learn suggest a strong adaptation period.
- Defensive Fit: While primarily a third baseman, Murakami may see time at first base or designated hitter, depending on the team that signs him. His glove work is serviceable but remains an area for refinement.
- Cultural Impact: Murakami’s move will further strengthen the cultural exchange between Japan and U.S. baseball, inspiring young players on both sides of the Pacific.
Key Dates to Watch
- November 7, 2025: Official posting announced.
- November 8, 2025 — 8 a.m. ET: Negotiation window opens.
- December 22, 2025 — 5 p.m. ET: Deadline for Murakami to sign with an MLB club.
These six weeks will be pivotal as teams finalize evaluations and prepare formal offers. Analysts expect a competitive bidding process that could exceed $100 million in total value, given Murakami’s age, power potential, and marketability.
Murakami’s MLB Projection
Murakami’s offensive profile mirrors some of MLB’s top young power hitters, blending raw strength with advanced on-base skills. His ability to hit for both average and power in Japan—combined with his discipline—suggests he could evolve into a middle-order threat in the U.S. within his first few seasons.
If he adjusts quickly, Murakami could deliver 30-plus home runs annually. His left-handed swing suits MLB ballparks well, especially those with shorter right-field fences such as Yankee Stadium, Wrigley Field, and Oracle Park.
Defensively, Murakami will likely need to prove he can handle third base at MLB speed, though his arm strength and reaction time give him the foundation to improve. Coaches familiar with his work ethic have called him “obsessive” about perfecting his craft, often spending hours studying opposing pitchers and his own swing mechanics.
What Comes Next
With the posting window now open, MLB front offices are preparing to make their move. Murakami’s age and proven record make him one of the most valuable international free agents in years. Teams that miss out on top MLB free agents this winter may redirect their focus toward securing him.
His final decision will likely come before Christmas, allowing the chosen team to integrate him early into spring-training plans. Once the deal is signed, Murakami will join the ranks of other successful Japanese MLB players who have left a lasting legacy on both sides of the Pacific.
In closing, Munetaka Murakami’s posting represents a new chapter in baseball’s global era. Fans across the U.S. are watching closely to see where he lands—and how his legendary power will translate under the bright lights of Major League Baseball. Share your thoughts below on which team you think will sign him and how he’ll perform in his first MLB season.