Japanese star Munetaka Murakami, 25, is posted for MLB international free agency after a historic home run season.

Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, 25, will be posted by the Yakult Swallows, making him eligible for MLB’s international free agency. A two-time NPB MVP with 246 career home runs, including a 56-homer season in 2022, Murakami is projected to draw interest from multiple teams despite a high strikeout rate and defensive limitations. MLB clubs, including the Phillies, Red Sox, Mets, and Yankees, are evaluating him as a power hitter, potentially at first base or DH, though roster constraints in teams like the Dodgers may complicate a signing. His final contract will include a posting fee and depend on how teams balance his offensive potential against his weaknesses.