Overview
- All 30 MLB clubs were notified of Murakami’s availability, with the signing window opening Saturday morning and closing at 5 p.m. ET on Dec. 22.
- MLB.com and multiple outlets list the Yankees, Mets, Mariners, Phillies, Giants and Red Sox as suitors, with reports also noting Blue Jays interest and debate over a Dodgers fit.
- The 25-year-old left-handed slugger brings elite credentials that include 56 homers in 2022, a Triple Crown, multiple MVPs and 22 homers in 56 injury-shortened games this year.
- Evaluators cite significant swing-and-miss concerns, struggles versus higher velocity and below-average range at third base, leading many to project a move to first base or designated hitter in MLB.
- Reports project a nine-figure contract, and the signing team must also pay a posting fee of 20% of the first $25 million, 17.5% of the next $25 million and 15% of any amount beyond that.