Overview

• Sources report the Yakult Swallows will post the 25-year-old corner infielder this offseason, making him available to all 30 MLB clubs.
• Murakami is a two-time Central League MVP with 246 NPB home runs, including a 56-homer season, and he produced strong power in an injury-shortened 2025.
• The Yankees, Mets, Phillies and Mariners are cited as potential bidders, with the Dodgers, Giants and Red Sox also mentioned depending on positional fit at first base, third base or DH.
• Because he meets MLB age and service thresholds, he would not be restricted by international bonus-pool limits under the posting system.
• Scouts note rising strikeout rates and a dip in walks as potential red flags, and Japanese reports have speculated he could command more than ¥29 billion (about $200 million).