MLB Scout Analyzes Munetaka Murakami's Fit With Yankees, Future Position Amid Rumors

Heading into an offseason where Cody Bellinger, Paul Goldschmidt and Trent Grisham could potentially sign elsewhere as free agents, the New York Yankees could be keeping an eye on Munetaka Murakami to bolster their lineup.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported on Friday that Murakami will officially be posted by the Yakult Swallows, with the 45-day negotiating window for MLB teams opening on Saturday.

One scout told The Athletic's Will Sammon and Cody Stavenhagen that Murakami would be an "interesting fit" for the Bronx Bombers because his left-handed power could play up in Yankee Stadium, but his defensive position is a big question mark:

"I think he'd be an interesting fit for the Yankees, given their short porch there, but you got to play him somewhere. I don't think his offense is going to be able to make up for his defensive issues. I don't think third is a realistic position in the big leagues. I think first is going to be a work in progress. I don't see left field being realistic."

Murakami has primarily played third base throughout his eight NPB seasons, but he has seen time at first base and the outfield in recent years.

Murakami isn't great with the glove at any position, putting even more pressure on his bat to carry him. His power is enormous with high-end exit velocities and an extremely high flyball rate.

FanGraphs' Ben Clemens noted some scouts and executives believe Murakami will have to make some swing changes to make consistent contact against MLB-level pitching, but no one disputes he can hit the ball really far and really hard on impact.

The Yankees are an obvious fit both because they have the ability to reach the "nine-figure deal" that Passan says Murakami is likely to get, and they have the need if all of Bellinger, Goldschmidt and Grisham leave in free agency.

That trio combined for 73 homers during the 2025 season. The Yankees could turn to Ben Rice as their starting first baseman in 2026, but they still don't have an obvious option for third base.

Ryan McMahon stabilized New York's defense at the hot corner down the stretch last season after being acquired in a trade with the Colorado Rockies, but he hit just .208/.308/.333 in 54 games following the deal.