Star Japanese third baseman Munetaka Murakami has been posted by the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, entering MLB free agency for the 2026 season. The 25-year-old slugger, who set the NPB single-season home run record with 56 in 2022, brings elite power potential to Major League Baseball. His 45-day signing window closes on December 22.
Munetaka Murakami, turning 26 in February, is the most prominent free agent from Japan's NPB this offseason. He hit 22 home runs in 56 games during the 2025 season and broke Sadaharu Oh's single-season home run record for a Japanese-born player in 2022. While his power translates well, Murakami faces challenges with a high strikeout rate of around 28% and limited defensive value at third base, where he may soon shift to first base or designated hitter. He has played 266 career games at first base.
"This is a legitimate, ridiculous power hitter," said Jim Bowden on CBS Sports HQ. "He does profile as a 30-40 home run type guy. Think of the power of Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso. That's the kind of power, and maybe even more."
Murakami must sign a contract by 5 p.m. ET on December 22, including passing a physical, or he returns to the Swallows. Analysts rank him as the seventh-best free agent this offseason, projecting a six-year, $140 million deal. This would trigger a posting fee of $9.275 million plus 15% of the amount over $50 million, totaling about $22.775 million for the Swallows, or $162.775 million all-in. For comparison, Willy Adames signed a $182 million contract last offseason at age 29.
A CBS Sports ranking evaluates all 30 MLB teams as potential landing spots, prioritizing fit and likelihood. Top fits include the Los Angeles Angels (needing a lefty power bat at third base), Philadelphia Phillies (with options at third and DH), and Seattle Mariners (seeking lineup depth). Lower-ranked teams like the Colorado Rockies and Cleveland Guardians are seen as unlikely due to budget constraints, despite Murakami's youth making him a long-term asset.
His market depends on willingness to change positions, with risks in strikeouts against non-fastballs. Still, at the start of his prime, Murakami offers game-changing upside for a contender or rebuilder.