Yankees Emerge as an ‘Intriguing’ Suitor for Japanese Star Free Agent
Munetaka Murakami, long linked to Yankees free agency rumors, is set to hit the market after the 2025 season, and New York could be a serious contender. The 1B/3B has openly expressed interest in joining the Yankees, and according to Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation, while Murakami prefers the West Coast, he would make an exception for the Yankees.
“I was talking to some Japanese/NPB insiders, they told me he would definitely prefer on the West Coast…but it’s going to be West Coast teams versus one team on the East Coast; and it’s the Yankees…he would definitely be willing to sign with the Yankees.”
McKain also believes the Yankees could be frontrunners for Murakami, a dominant home run hitter in NPB. His contact skills have dipped, but his left-handed power potential makes him an appealing fit for Yankee Stadium.
Why the Yankees Could Be in a Prime Position to Land Murakami
The Dodgers may not be a major competitor in this race, given their commitments to Max Muncy, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani. Meanwhile, the Yankees lack a long-term first baseman, with Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year deal and nearing the end of his career.
However, Murakami’s rising strikeout rates could be a concern. Over the last two seasons, his strikeout rate has climbed significantly, from 128 in 2022 to 180 in 2024. While he still produced 33 home runs and 105 walks last season, facing MLB pitching could present new challenges.
To be continued…
